BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN (Borneo Bulletin/ANN): After over a year of no local transmissions, Brunei Darussalam is back on restrictive measures, including the closure of businesses and schools, in the wake of new community spread.
The current standard operating procedure also require the public to wear face masks when venturing outdoors or visiting public places such as shopping complexes.
The Bulletin spoke with some people in the food and beverage industry to ask for their take on how their establishments would be affected, by the return of the Covid-19 restrictions.
Pondok Seri Wangi Manager Ridwan Horas said, “It is too early to say, as we are not certain how long the restrictions will last. But I am concerned about the possibility of a prolonged lockdown, as it could take a toll on our business.”
Depot Restaurant Manager Wilson said, “Looking at how the situation is escalating, it seems like the restrictions will continue for another few weeks, which would definitely impact the food and beverage businesses. Hopefully, subsidies can be implemented for rent, utility bills and so on.”
Meanwhile, employees in Gadong and Kiulap commercial areas said business on Sunday was really slow, with few orders for take-outs and deliveries.
At the popular 101 Café, the staff saw the restrictions extending for a few months.
“We are preparing to lay down our contingency plan to keep the flow of cash going, while at the same time, cutting down on the quantity of bakery goods,” they said.
Another well-known café shared similar sentiment.
“We are keeping our hopes up that it wouldn’t be as bad as the first wave of Covid-19 here. We trust that the authorities are trying their very best to address the situation.” - Borneo Bulletin/Asia News Network
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