COVID-19 screening tests for residents living at high-risk floors in Desa Bistari Apartments, Batu Uban, are currently ongoing since the enhanced movement control order (EMCO) was implemented at the premises on Dec 7. The EMCO will last until Dec 20.
State Housing, Local Government, Town and Country Planning Committee chairman Jagdeep Singh Deo said out of the 2,300 residents living there (blocks A and B), only 1,500 would be selected to undergo the screening.
“The 1,500 residents are those with high-risk factors and more vulnerable to being infected with the virus.
“As of yesterday (Dec 10), some 700 residents have undergone the screening tests, while the remaining 800 will undergo it gradually in the coming days,” Jagdeep said during his visit to Desa Bistari Apartments in Batu Uban today.
For foreign workers of Desa Bistari who have yet to return to the premises, Jagdeep advised them to return as soon possible and get their tests done.
“We understand it is difficult times for all, especially those living in areas under EMCO.
“But, at this point in time, those living under EMCO must be extra cautious and remain where they are,” he added.
Meanwhile, northeast district health officer Datin Dr Azizah Ab. Manan said due to the need to prioritise only critical Covid-19 test samples in labs available in the state, the ones obtained from Desa Bistari would be sent to the public health laboratory (makmal kesihatan awam) in Ipoh.
“The ‘makmal kesihatan awam’ in Ipoh can be utilised by other states within the northern region in need of desperate times,” she said.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Alvie Cheng