KOTA BARU: The sharp increase in Covid-19 cases in Kelantan does not surprise locals.

Those the New Straits Times spoke to said most people in the state took the Covid-19 standard operating procedures (SOP) for granted, with many refusing to wear face masks or taking steps to ensure physical distancing.

Mohamad Zaidan Abdul Rahim, 44, said the lack of education or awareness on the dangers of Covid-19 had led to such ignorance.

"You can see many examples everywhere. For instance, people even bring their children to jostle with the crowd at food stalls when buying food to break their fast. 

"This is why the cases are increasing. People do not understand the dangers of Covid-19. The police and other enforcement authorities need to be stricter when enforcing the SOP."

Housewife Habsah Ismail, 40, from Melor near here, said as a parent she was worried about the children's safety in classrooms, as many Covid-19 clusters were linked to schools.

"You have many people who could not care less about wearing face masks. And now many of the clusters are linked to schools.

"I am worried about my children. People are ignoring the SOP. The authorities need to do something," said the mother of three.

Civil servant Nik Saiful Adli Burhan, 40, believed people had become desensitised to the pandemic after more than a year.

"They are not afraid or bothered any more about keeping their guard up like before.

"Most people have become used to the situation.

"They do not mind attending social events, such as weddings, as they believe the virus will one day go away."

Project developer Mohd Sukiman Mustafa, 41, reminded the people to play their part in mitigating the increase in cases.

"The people must be disciplined. They need to learn the importance of adhering to the SOP.

"Kelantan is a business destination. Imagine if everything comes to a grinding halt.

"People will then lose their income if Covid-19 continues to ravage our lives and livelihoods. We need to cooperate with the authorities to stem the spread of the virus."

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2021/04/684904/infections-rising-because-many-flouting-sop-say-kelantan-folk