Logbook must also be provided

MY father was prevented from entering a neighbourhood mall because he didn’t have a smartphone to scan the MySejahtera code at the entrance of the premises.

There used to be a logbook for visitors to sign in, but this was removed after a spike in Covid-19 cases in the vicinity.

He asked for the logbook but was told it would not be provided. When I inquired further with the management of the mall, I was informed that only those whose status was low risk, as indicated by the MySejahtera app, would be permitted entry. No notifications were placed at the mall to inform visitors of this new rule.

Shouldn’t mall operators and/or all business operators ensure that logbooks are provided for those who are unable to scan the MySejahtera code?

It might be because they do not own a smartphone or have just forgotten to bring it along. The absence of the book effectively prohibits access to all facilities within the mall, and this could be seen as a discriminatory practice.

My father does not use a mobile phone. I am certain that there are many others who do not own mobile phones, some by choice and others because they cannot afford to buy one.

To some, a mobile phone is a luxury and not a necessity.

What happens to those who forgot to bring their phones? And if, for whatever reason, the phone cannot scan the MySejahtera code, would the people concerned also be turned way?

For such instances, wouldn’t it be sensible for businesses and mall operators to provide the logbook as an alternative?

There have been talk that movement restrictions would be eased for those who are fully vaccinated.

In considering these relaxations, would alternatives be provided for people who do not use mobile phones?

Would showing the certificate issued on completion of vaccination be sufficient evidence to gain entry?

For those without a mobile phone, would a photocopy of the vaccination certificate suffice? The government must have policies that are succinct and unambiguous when the time comes to relax movement restrictions for those who are fully vaccinated.

It is also hoped that no discrimination will be practised against those who do not use mobile phones.

I am advocating for the provision of a logbook as a mandatory requirement for all business operators and/or mall operators to cater to those who are unable to scan the MySejahtera code.

The business operator must take responsibility for failure to provide the logbook.

Mall and business operators should be required to ensure that alternatives are provided so that no one is prevented from entering their premises.

CONCERNED DAUGHTER

Petaling Jaya