The Local Government and Housing Ministry has ordered all food premises and stalls to close by 8pm daily during the Movement Control Order (MCO) period. – File photo
KUCHING: The Local Government and Housing Ministry has ordered all food premises and stalls to close by 8pm daily during the Movement Control Order (MCO) period.
A circular issued by permanent secretary to the ministry Antonio Kahti Galis to all local authorities said the 8pm regulation came into effect last night.
“In line with the declaration of the MCO from March 18 to 31 by the Chief Minister of Sarawak, all shops selling food and beverages, kopitiam (coffee shops) and food courts are instructed to close at 8pm every day until further notice,” it said, instructing all local authorities to ensure compliance.
The ministry called upon the community across Sarawak to observe and comply with the regulation in the fight against Coronavirus Disease (Covid-19).
Assistant Minister of Local Government and Housing Datu Dr Penguang Manggil, when contacted by The Borneo Post, confirmed that the permanent secretary had issued the circular in line with the ongoing MCO to help contain the spread of Covid-19.
Under the MCO, eating outlets are allowed to operate but only for takeaway services, and not dining in.
The first day of the MCO yesterday saw many coffeeshops here flouting the order by allowing people to dine in.
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