KUCHING: The number of Covid-19 cases in the state is expected to rise within the next few days, says Dato Sri Dr Sim Kui Hian.

As such, the Minister of Local Government and Housing hoped that all Sarawakians would band together and play their role in combating the disease.

“These are trying times for us, and it is just the beginning of the Covid-19 positive cases in Sarawak; they won’t stop at three cases or six cases. It will continue to increase.

“So I urge the public not to spread rumours, postpone big gatherings and not to travel to any Covid-19 affected countries,” Dr Sim said.

He made the call at a press conference after a walkabout with Minister of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Datuk Alexander Nanta Linggi at a supermarket in The Spring Shopping Mall here yesterday.

Dr Sim added that after the State Disaster Management Committee had announced the first three Covid-19 positive cases on Friday, and the six cases yesterday, there had been quite a panic among the community leading to some people buying more items than usual.

“There is no need for panic-buying of daily necessities, face masks or hand sanitizers. What is important is to maintain good personal hygiene, practice social distancing and postpone any large gatherings.

“As for face masks, it is important to use them appropriately as well as disposing of them properly. If you do not have any symptoms of Covid-19, then you don’t need to use a face mask. Those working in hospitals are the front liners, so of course they have to use them,” Dr Sim said.

On the walkabout, Nanta said it was good for the ministry to go to the ground to allay any fears that the public may have about inadequate supplies of food stuffs and daily essentials.

“We assure you that there are enough to go around for everyone. We want the public not to go panic-buying or hoarding because we are not in a condition that warrants panic-buying or hoarding.

“The government is taking proactive and positive steps to ensure that we have enough of these items. The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs enforcement officers will be monitoring the situation and ensuring that nobody is taking advantage of this situation to make a quick profit. We also wish to urge consumers to be wise when making purchases,” Nanta said.

Mayor of Kuching South City Council Dato Wee Hong Seng was also present at the walkabout.