Main Image via Imoney

The rapidly increasing number of COVID-19 cases has the nation in a state of worry, after consecutively breaking 4-figure new cases in recent days. Needless to say the Indian community is concerned. How will we celebrate Deepavali this 14th of November? In conjunction to the celebration few important announcements have been made by the Malaysian Government.   

The National Security Council has announced a new standard operating procedure for Deepavali, in accordance with the new normal in light of the Covid-19 pandemic. Here are the list of SOPs that have been announced by Senior Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

1. Those living in areas under the enhanced movement control order (EMCO) or the conditional movement control order (CMCO) will not be allowed to cross sub-district, district, and state borders to return to their hometowns.

2. Temples in these areas must follow strict SOPs, including preparing counters at entrances to check temperature levels, and to screen out Covid-19 related signs including cough, sore throat, and difficulty breathing.

3. Attendance is to be recorded via the MySejahtera app or an attendance book. Devotees with chronic illnesses, the elderly, and children under the age of 12 are not encouraged to attend. No more than 30 people will be allowed into the temple at any one time, depending on its size and the ability to ensure adequate social distancing. The “prasadam” must be distributed in packaging to those in attendance. Devotees must leave immediately once prayers have concluded.

However temples situated in areas under EMCO will not be allowed to operate due to the risks involved.

4. For CMCO locations, those celebrating Deepavali in landed homes would be limited to a maximum of 20 people at any one time. For strata homes under 1,500 square feet, the limit is 10 people while homes of 2,500 square feet and above cannot host more than 15 people.

5. All individuals and family members are encouraged to wear face masks, ensure social distancing of at least one meter, and always prioritise personal hygiene by using hand sanitiser and washing soap.

6. Routine sanitisation should also be conducted, especially on dining tables and surfaces frequently coming into contact with touch. Visiting the homes of families and friends is not permitted for those in EMCO areas.

The ceiling prices for 20 types of food items have been set under the Deepavali festive price control scheme, to take effect take effect from Nov 9 to Nov 17.

Among items in the ceiling price list are the following:

- Chicken (RM7.50 per kg)

- Local mutton with bones (RM50 per kg)

- Grade A chicken eggs (RM0.39 sen)

- Long beans (RM8 per kg)

- Cucumber (RM3 per kg)

- Dried chillies (RM16 per kg)

- Shallots (RM9.50 per kg)

- Potatoes from China (RM3 per kg)

- Australian lentils (RM4 per kg).

Remember to follow all SOPs set by the government. Let’s do our part in the fight against COVID-19. May this festival of lights bring peace, prosperity, happiness and good health to all. HAPPY DEEPAVALI from all of us at RAAGA!

#WeAreFrontliners #IdhuvumKadandhuPogum

via GIPHY

Info via The Star  

Written By Thineshkan