ALOR STAR: Despite a recent surge of Covid-19 cases, residents in Alor Star, one of three districts in Kedah with the highest infection cases, still do not wear face masks in public areas.
Checks by the New Straits Times in wet markets, train stations, business centres and public service centres found that face masks are primarily observed among the elderly.
Mohd Lutfi Abd Ghani, 63, a chicken trader at Pasar Besar Alor Star, said that while most traders wear masks, the customers generally are not doing so, despite the Health Ministry's statement on Dec 18 on the spike of Covid-19 new infection cases nationwide.
"I recognise the importance of taking precautions, especially as a senior citizen working in a bustling environment. However, it appears that others may not be adequately prepared, whether due to a lack of concern or unawareness of the recent surge in new infection cases," he said when met today.
A customer, Sulaiman Ahmad, 72, expressed concern about the rising trend of Covid-19 and the lack of concern by the public.
"I make sure to avoid crowds and physical contact as much as possible. If the numbers (continue to) increase, I may get my fourth Covid-19 vaccine booster shot.
"During the recent holiday season, there were a lot of wedding ceremonies held, and not many put on their masks despite being in a very crowded place," he added.
While visiting the Inland Revenue Board office at the Alor Star Urban Transformation Center (UTC), Mohammad Ismail voiced his concerns about the public's apparent lack of proactive action and the insufficient reminders in place.
"The younger folks are probably not too concerned, but as a senior citizen, taking care of my health is important," said the 69-year-old trader.
Ghazali Yusuf, a 68-year-old passenger waiting for a train at KTMB Alor Star station, said there is a lack of notices for the public to mask up in Kedah.
"My wife and I have been in Kedah for the holidays. I have not seen many reminders to inform the public (to mask up). Even here, not everyone is wearing a mask when they board the train," said the retired business manager from Kuala Lumpur.
Pekan Rabu spice trader Safia Mad Din, 42, said although the building's management issued notices to business operators to mask up, she observed a general lack of concern among customers, mostly tourists.
On Monday, the media reported that three districts in Kedah, namely, Alor Star, Kulim and Kuala Muda, recorded an alarming spike in Covid-19 infection cases.
State Health Department deputy director Dr Norizan Ismail was reported as saying that 9,000 new cases and 40 deaths due to Covid-19 were recorded as of Dec 23.