Sabri: Situation in Tawau and Lahad Datu still under control, Gov’t have yet to decide on EMCO

KUALA LUMPUR – Senior Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob confirmed today that the government has yet to decided on whether the enhanced movement control order (EMCO) should be imposed in Sabah state’s Tawau and Lahad Datu.

According to Ismail, there are currently 511,000 and 266,000 residents living in Tawau and Lahad Datu, respectively.

He said that implementing the EMCO in a very large group therefore the government has not made any decisions as of the moment.

Ismail confirmed that the situation in both states as still under control.

The Health Ministry conducted Covid-19 screening to 3,981 in Tawau and 1,421 in Lahad Datu. Result shows that 331 tested positive in Tawau, while 88  in Lahad Datu.

It was confirmed that out of the 331 positive cases, 305 were prisoners, while the 86 positive cases recorded in Lahad Datu were also detainees which shows that the virus is still under control.

Ismail said that the authorities will be conducting additional mass testing of Covid-19 to 25,000 individuals in Tawau and 13,000 individuals in Lahad Datu in a effort to curb the spread of the virus.

The Health Ministry also identified prison blocks and halls as quarantine centers for people under surveillance in both the states.

The Senior Minister once again urged the public to remain calm regarding the rumors in Tawau and Lahad Datu being locked down due to the coronavirus. He advised the public to avoid crowded places and practice social distancing while using face masks.