KUCHING: Sarawak is enforcing strict entry procedures for those coming from Labuan and Peninsular Malaysia to prevent the Covid-19 Delta variant from entering the state, says Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas.
The Deputy Chief Minister said the Delta variant had not been detected in the state so far while cases had been reported elsewhere in Malaysia.
He said it was now mandatory for anyone entering Sarawak from Peninsular Malaysia to take a swab test three days before their departure.
"Those returning from Labuan need to apply to the state disaster management committee before coming in.
"Those who have stayed in Labuan for a period of 21 days will not be allowed to come in," he said after handing over fruit baskets to frontliners and enforcement teams at the Indoor Stadium vaccination centre here on Friday (July 2).
Uggah said the tighter procedures were meant to protect Sarawakians from the Delta variant.
"We pray that the Delta variant will not come to the state as it is a deadlier and more contagious variant," he said.
The handover of fruit baskets was organised by the Federal Agriculture and Food Industries Ministry, state Agriculture Modernisation, Native Land and Regional Development Ministry, Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority (Fama) and state Agriculture Department.
Uggah said it was an expression of thanks to the frontliners and teams involved in the vaccination programme at the Indoor Stadium.
"They have worked hard and done well. I am happy with their performance," he said.
As of June 30, the centre had vaccinated 63,538 individuals.
It is open daily from 7am to 10pm and has the capacity to vaccinate 4,000 people a day.
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