Omicron: Perak, Penang urge vigilance, Langkawi implements more tests

Malaysia – After the country’s first occurrence of the new Covid-19 Omicron variant, individuals in two states have been advised to be alert and adhere to standard operating procedures (SOPs) in order to prevent infection.

Penang’s state government is urging 503,000 frontline workers, older residents, and persons with comorbidities to get booster injections promptly at the state’s Vaccination Centres (PPV).

Dr Norlela Ariffin, head of the State Agrotechnology and Food Safety, Rural Development, and Health Committee, warned that although the state has attained a 101.3 percent adult immunization rate, the spread of Omicron should not be taken lightly by the public.

“People should continue to follow SOPs and get booster doses to strengthen their personal defense and help reduce Covid-19 category three, four, and five cases that need hospitalization and intensive care unit treatment” (ICUs).

“As of yesterday, 108,420 inhabitants of Penang have gotten booster injections, which is quite reassuring. However, we remain one of the worst six states, and one of the primary reasons is that 40 to 50% of individuals scheduled for booster injections do not show up or refuse,” she stated in a statement yesterday.

Mohd Akmal Kamarudin, chairman of Perak’s Health, Science, Environment, and Green Technology Committee, urged the state’s residents to constantly practice self-care and avoid crowded locations.

“Avoid crowded locations, always wear a face mask, and often wash your hands as a precaution,” he said.

In Kedah, an extra Covid-19 detection test will be conducted on visitors arriving in Langkawi through the Langkawi International Tourism Travel Bubble to verify the resort island is clear of the Omicron strain.

According to a statement issued today by the Langkawi Development Authority (LADA), the extra detection test was done on the third and fifth day after the date of arrival for travelers from high-risk nations.

“LADA applauds the Ministry of Health for taking further precautions to check travelers entering Langkawi under the Langkawi International Tourism Travel Bubble program.

“During their stay in Langkawi, tourists must submit to the RTK-Ag test on the third and fifth days. This will guarantee that Langkawi remains free of Covid-19 and its Omicron variant,” the statement said.