THE Penang government has initiated ‘Penang Lawan Covid-19’ campaign as part of its efforts to combat the spread of Covid-19 in the state.
Through the campaign, an official Facebook account (https://www.facebook.com/ilovpg)
is set up to disseminate the latest and current information regarding Covid-19.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the campaign is necessary as a first step in curbing the spread of misinformation and fake news regarding the disease among the community.
“We will be providing all the necessary information, such as, preventive measures and other relevant information from the Health Ministry (MOH) and state Health Department through this public awareness campaign.
“With this campaign, we hope the public can get all the verifications and up-to-date information about the disease. This will help them to not feel overwhelmed and panicked,” Chow told a press conference in Komtar today.
Also present during the press conference were state Tourism Development, Arts, Culture and Heritage (PETACH) Committee chairman Yeoh Soon Hin and Penang Convention and Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) chief executive officer Ashwin Gunasekaran.
According to Chow, the state government has also taken some proactive measures to safeguard the well-being and safety of the people in Penang.
“This is including by issuing an order that every state government and private organisation programmes that involve mass gatherings should be cancelled based on the guidelines from MOH.
“We have also ordered all the state and private agencies to start screening body temperature, installing hand sanitiser and to practise social distancing of the staff and the public who enter their building.
“Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) and Penang Island City Council (MBPP) will also ensure that all business premises, including hawker food complexes would follow the guidelines provided.
“Apart from that, public health awareness campaigns will be organised throughout the state to provide information and awareness to the public on ways to protect themselves and their loved ones,” he added.
Chow said those who require accurate information on Covid-19 could also contact the Crisis Preparedness and Response Centre or email to [email protected] or call 04-2629902.
Chow also reiterated the state government’s commitment to continue working closely with MOH, state Health Department and other relevant agencies to combat the spreading of Covid-19.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Ahmad Adil Muhamad
Video by Chan Kok Kuan