IT is that time again where we are at a crossroad in our quest to fight the Covid-19 pandemic. I sound like a broken record – I realise it, but the fact and my stand remains the same. We are at war with a notorious little virus that has more than once threatened to finish off the existence of humanity in many countries.

Leaving out the testing capabilities and numbers – we are fortunate that we have controlled the pandemic in Malaysia – for the moment. Why do I say that? Well, we have come to a time when there is again another festive celebration in Malaysia. It is make or break time in Malaysia for the Covid-19 pandemic. Look at the erratic numbers daily – we are dancing on a very fine line here. The control of the pandemic has largely depended on Malaysians after the MCO was lifted.

However, time and again, we see many Malaysians ignoring SOPs, not using the SELangkah or MySejahtera app to check-in for their visits, nor do they write down telephone numbers accurately. These are all irresponsible behaviours that must be curbed. I strongly urge Malaysians, especially our Muslim brothers and sisters who will be celebrating Aidiladha soon, to please adhere to the SOPs. Remember that we need to avoid confined and crowded areas. I know we will have another day before the wearing of masks becomes compulsory, but please, wear a mask at all times when in public areas or receiving guests. Do not forget, social distancing is key, along with handwashing, hand-sanitising and disinfection of materials, to ensure that we do not see new clusters after the holiday. Remember, no matter how much we would like to embrace our family and guests, be wary of our salaams and hugging – let it wait, please!

A few days ago, former health minister Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad had rightly put it: we are not out of the pandemic yet and relaxing will only make things worse. Think of it as a war; relaxing for a bit will always give the enemy the chance to regroup and gain more ammunition for an attack. We wouldn’t want that now would we? Opt to stay indoors, follow more stringent SOPs and have a happy Aidiladha everyone. Remember, by sacrificing all celebrations for a year, we get a lifetime of happiness without the virus. 

As we also approach our national independence day, remember, our dream is to also be a nation independent and free from this virus as well. In conjunction with that, allow me to welcome the national month with a pantun: 

Bulan Merdeka Bulan yang Mulia,
Mendengar laungan Tunku membawa air mata,
Nasihat sudah diberi berpada-pada,
Sila pakai masker atau anda akan di denda
#MASKyourselves #pakaimasker

Salam Hari Raya Haji, salam bulan merdeka, salam sihat dan bersalamlah ikut SOP (hand over heart). – July 25, 2020.

* Dr Arvinder-Singh H.S. is a medical officer with a certificate in Occupational Health, masters in Health Research, diploma in Football Medicine and is currently pursuing a PhD in Community Health focusing on adolescent athletes’ health.

* This is the opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malaysian Insight. Article may be edited for brevity and clarity.