GEORGE TOWN: Penang will not allow basic hairdressing services to operate in the state during the Movement Control Order (MCO) despite it being given the green light by Putrajaya.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said this was decided by the Penang Security Council Committee (JKKN) in a meeting which he chaired this morning.
"State government had also looked into over 95 per cent public feedback, which highlighted their concern over the matter. The meeting also took note of the social distancing factors and also a possibility of it triggering a new (Covid-19) cluster.
"Hence the JKKN meeting decided that the state has the right to not follow the Federal Government’s decision on the matter.
"We urge Putrajaya to reconsider their decision for the safety of all," he said in a statement today.
The International Trade and Industry Ministry on Friday allowed for several industry’s and business sectors to operate during the MCO period, which has been extended to April 28.
Apart from barber shops, the other businesses given the green light to operate include full service launderettes, hardware stores, electrical and electronics stores and optical shops.
The government's decision was based on findings from studies that indicated that the spread of Covid-19 would not only have a significant impact on health, but would also have detrimental effects on the economy and the well-being of the Malaysian people.
Chow said that the JKKN and the state government will also wait for the necessary guidelines from the respective ministries before allowing the other industries to carry out their operations.
"Our stance is focused on the need for a balance between public health and the lives of the people in the state," he added.
Chow also said that the state government is looking at planned improvements in different aspects including economics, emotional and social aspects for the benefit of all.
"I will share it in the near future," he said.