Don’t consume ice from unknown sources, public told

Phee (in white) giving out face masks and hand sanitiser during the Covid-19 awareness programme at The Top in Komtar.

THE public have been warned against consuming ice from unknown sources in view of the novel coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak.

Penang welfare, caring society and environment committee chairman Phee Boon Poh said the virus could be transmitted through liquids.

“We do not know the source of water used to produce ice cubes in the market.

“Some ice manufacturers do not boil the water or properly disinfect the water before freezing.

“Unless we are certain of the water quality used, it is best to avoid consuming ice,” Phee told reporters on Friday.

He said that upkeeping personal hygiene remains the best way to stop the virus.

“This includes avoiding unnecessary body contact.

“Those ill with flu or coughs should wear face masks and avoid crowded places,” he said.

Addressing rumours of Covid-19 cases in Penang, Phee denied there were any such cases yet and urged the public to stop spreading fake news which causes unnecessary alarm.

“Penang has done all that is necessary to ensure all gathering spots take preventive measures.”

Earlier, a series of Covid-19 awareness videos produced by Penang Green Council were launched at The Top in Komtar.

The videos will be displayed at cineplexes and LED panels in public areas 40 times between 10am and 10pm daily.

Also present were Komtar assemblyman Teh Lai Heng, Batu Lanchang assemblyman Ong Ah Teong, Ayer Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng and Sungai Pinang assemblyman Lim Siew Khim who received face masks and sanitisers from the state.

The state had acquired 200,000 face masks to be distributed in stages.