THE relaxation of tourism activities for fully vaccinated people as announced by the Federal Government has been welcomed by many tourism stakeholders in Penang. They, however, opined that the standard operating procedures (SOPs) could still be fine-tuned.
In accordance with the announcement , tourism activities involving homestays and hotels within the same state had been allowed, starting Aug 10.
It only applies to the states under the phase two and above of the National Recovery Plan (NRP).
Speaking to Buletin Mutiara, Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH) – Penang Chapter chairman Raj Kumar lauded the authorities’ plan to reopening domestic tourism within the state.
He, however, said a clearer picture on tourism activities should be drafted out by the authorities.
“I am fully supportive of the government’s decision to allow domestic tourism to operate, but the SOPs should be clearer as we need to understand that the Covid-19 pandemic is already within our community.
“For instance, the government should make it clear on certain aspects when hotels reopen.
“Are you expecting hotels to be reopened, but without any usage of the facilities such as swimming pool?
“I hope the authorities can at least cap a certain number of people allowed in the pool at one time. This can at least bring respite to those staying in the hotels or other accommodation,” he told Buletin Mutiara.
Association of Tourism Attractions Penang (ATAP) chairman Ch’ng Huck Theng also questioned why some of the tourism attractions have to remain closed although relaxation of tourism activities had been announced.
“Why is the public allowed to jog in Botanic Gardens while similar environment like Tropical Spice Gardens, The Habitat, Penang Bird Park, Penang Tropical Fruit Farm, still have to remain shut?
“We urge the Government to look into the matter,” he said.
Pertubuhan Kesedaran Komuniti Tanjong deputy secretary Kenny Ng Kai Lin is of the view that the risk is still there for the fully vaccinated ones.
“At least, 70% of people have to be fully vaccinated before they are allowed to travel. It is a basic requirement for the vaccination rate.
“I will be taking extra precaution although I have received two doses of vaccine,” he said.
Meanwhile, copywriter Liew Jing Ying concurred by saying that self-discipline is important even though some tourism activities are allowed.
“We are not out of the woods yet and we need to be extra cautious by adhering to the relevant SOPs,” she said.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Law Suun Ting and courtesy of interviewees