KUCHING: The Sarawak state election is not a priority of the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government for the time being as it is focusing on efforts to curb the spread of Covid-19.
Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg said there is a need to contain the infection as it has taken many lives in the state.
"The GPS government will give priority to efforts to fight Covid-19. Other matters such as state election could be done later until the situation permits," he said in a message in conjunction with Hari Raya Aidilfitri tomorrow.
He said the increase in infections lately was worrying with Sarawak becoming among the top states in terms of daily cases in the past few weeks.
"The situation was quite under control earlier at two-digit level but it has worsened which is worrying. The SDMC (Sarawak Disaster Management Committee) is also receiving public criticism," he said.
Despite that, Abang Johari said members of the committee would continue giving their best to curb the spread of Covid-19, by taking into consideration the relevant data and factors.
According to him, SDMC had taken measures to continue the Enhanced Movement Control Order (EMCO) in places with infections in line with the 'Trace, Test, Quarantine and Isolate' policy.
He said the Sarawak government would continue to obtain adequate vaccine supply including through negotiation and own procurement from suppliers to complete immunisation in the state by August.
"Besides, the state government also needs to obtain the approval of the federal government to gazette private hospitals as vaccination centres to expedite the immunisation process especially in urban areas," he said.
He said this year would be the second time Aidilfitri is celebrated in a controlled manner.
"We understand the desire to celebrate the victory (after one month of fasting) with family members and friends but our religion also tells us to give priority to the safety of life and health." he said. - Bernama