Covid-19 swab test for assemblypersons at DUN proceeds smoothly and orderly

Abdul Karim gets swabbed while Fatimah looks on. – Photo by Chimon Upon.

KUCHING (Nov 6): The mandatory Covid-19 swab test for state assemblymen and assemblywomen proceeded in a smooth and orderly manner at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) complex foyer entrance today.

The elected leaders waited in their cars while waiting their turn at the drive-through screening held from 9am to 4pm today. The two-day screening will also be held tomorrow from 8am to 12noon.

According to DUN secretary Pele Peter Tinggom in a letter dated Oct 31, instructions came from the DUN speaker, and all 82 members of the house had to undergo the swab tests and present the test result before the DUN sitting which is held from Nov 9 to 13. The sitting has been shortened from eight to five days in light of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Pele added that each of these scheduled sessions is limited to 40 to 50 tests, and the costs are borne by the DUN. The results of the swab tests can be obtained within 24 to 48 hours.

For Tanjong Datu assemblywoman Datuk Jamilah Anu, it was her first time to undergo the swab test, and believed it is for the best, before attending the DUN sitting.

“Because we don’t know who has infection. With swab test like this, I feel relieved.

“If the result is negative, we can sit in the DUN hall with peace of mind, if positive, then we have to quarantine ourselves like everyone else,” she said when met after the swab test.

She added that the government was caring for the elected leaders’ wellbeing by conducting this swab test.

For Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, he felt that the swab test by the DUN administrative office was reasonable and good as it involved not only DUN members but also staff who are involved in the DUN sitting.

“I think putting this as one of the SOP (standard operating procedure) is a good effort as it is a meeting that involves many people. I can see many will undergo it today and tomorrow,” said Karim, who is also Asajaya assemblyman.

For Engkilili assemblyman Dr Johnical Rayong, he said the swab test was a good move due to the rising number of Covid-19 cases in Sarawak.

“This procedure must be done to ensure the health of those who are attending the DUN sitting and DUN officers. Well done to the organisers,” he said.

For Tarat assemblyman Datuk Roland Sagah, he welcomed the move by the DUN speaker and the state government for emphasising on the health of those involved in the DUN sitting.

“This is a great move as we value the health of the people, especially since we know that elected representatives will carry out their duties at respective areas and meeting many people. By doing this, we ensure the assemblymen health and not let them become disease carrier, especially during this pandemic.”

Meanwhile, Dalat assemblywoman Datuk Fatimah Abdullah said that even though the swab test seemed scary to her, she had to overcome it and go through it.

“We will be in an enclosed space and though we adhere to the SOP with physical distancing and wearing of face masks, this additional step will ensure that no Covid-19 positive person will enter the DUN. This is important in ensuring the health of those who are with us in the DUN, including the media,” said Fatimah who is also Minister of Welfare, Community Well-being, Women, Family and Childhood Development.

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