GEORGE TOWN: The Super Tanker food court in Lengkok Nipah, Taman Lip Sin, here has been ordered to be closed effective immediately after three hawkers tested positive for Covid-19.
A team from the Health Ministry arrived at the food court about 4.30pm before proceeding to record statements from several hawkers. They then pasted the closure notice at the premises.
A representative of the owner, identified only as Tan, 35, told the New Straits Times that he had received a call from the Health Ministry to be at the premises this afternoon.
"I was shocked when told that three hawkers had tested positive for Covid-19. The authorities said they had no choice but to close the premises indefinitely.
"I noticed several stalls were closed for business but I thought they had taken a break due to poor business as a result of the Movement Control Order (MCO). I did not expect them to be down with Covid-19," he said.
Tan said the remaining hawkers immediately closed their business after the closure notice was put up.
There are at least 70 stalls operating at the food court. However, due to the latest round of MCO 3.0, only a few were in operation.
Tan also urged the hawkers to abide by the advice of the Health Ministry and practice self quarantine.
"They should seek treatment if there are any symptoms.
"On our part, we have engaged a company to sanitise the whole premises tonight," he added.
A noodle seller, known only as Peter, 38, said he was sad that he had to close his business for a few days.
"As it is, hawkers like us are already having a hard tdime, but what can we do. I will take this time to self quarantine with my family members and have proper rest.
"Anyway, it is always better to be safe than sorry. It is okay to suffer a little loss. what is important is to take care of our health," he added.
He also urged the people not to be easily swayed by rumours, stressing that the Health Ministry had taken immediate steps to stop the spread of Covid-19.