TRAFFIC is expected to build up on most major highways in light of the upcoming Maulidur Rasul public holiday on Tuesday (Oct 19) following the recent decision by the Government to allow interstate travel.
The move by the authorities comes after Malaysia achieved the objective of having 90% of its adult population vaccinated against the COVID-19 virus.
The ban, while necessary to curb the spread of the COVID-19 virus, separated people from their respective loved ones, families and friends for months on end.
As usual to some the decision to permit interstate travel is welcomed while there are others who are against it.
The truth is there is no way of pleasing everyone. The key in my opinion is to strike a balance between lives and livelihoods and the foreseeable need for things to return to normalcy.
Perhaps we can agree that is might not be sustainable anymore for the country to undergo extended periods of lockdowns and travel bans.
The decision to allow interstate travel, dining in and the opening of more economic sectors are indicators that the situation is improving, but in no way does it mean we can throw all caution to the wind.
I am not a medical expert, but it is safe to say we have the edge now with the benefits of the vaccine.
However, it must not be treated as an excuse to lower our guard and do away with the need to strictly adhere to the Standard Operating Procedures.
We can all do our part to prevent the worst from happening.
The onus is now on all of us to be responsible and protect not only yourself, but those around you.
Heed the advice of the authorities to undergo self-testing via the use of the COVID-19 antigen rapid test kits before travelling or heading home to your respective hometowns.
Of course, this is on top of abiding to the current standard operating procedures (SOPs) which honestly requires no reminding.
From a layman point of view the daily positive cases might go up, new clusters may also be formed because of the increased movement, foot traffic and interaction.
We have come so far to achieve the leeway given now, but the whole situation can go belly up at any time if we repeat mistakes of the past.
I do not wish ill on anyone or anything but let me remind you that non-compliance to the SOPs comes with a heavy price and some have paid with their lives.
It is high time for us to strengthen the bond of unity and win this war together as a true Malaysian Family. – Oct 19, 2021.
Yeap Ming Liong
Subang Jaya, Selangor
The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Focus Malaysia.
Pic credit: The Straits Times
