MySejahtera app to be used in monitoring 2-hour shopping limit

The two-hour shopping time limit at retail premises will be monitored through the MySejahtera application, says Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Alexander Nanta Linggi.

He said the MySejahtera application records the exact time a customer enters the premises, which would facilitate the ministry’s personnel or the staff members of the outlet to conduct checks if necessary.

Yesterday, Nanta announced that customers are only allowed to spend a maximum of two hours at retail premises, including shopping malls. He also said the number of customers at a premise at any given time would be limited.

The enforcement of SOPs is in line with the implementation of the movement control order (MCO) 3.0 from May 25.

“Premises owners should also remind their customers to adhere to the two-hour time limit,” he said at a virtual news conference today.

Nanta said the ministry’s enforcement officers would conduct random checks at popular retail outlets to ensure that the people comply with the SOPs.

“Shoppers are advised to plan their activities wisely, thus helping to reduce the Covid-19 infection chain in the country,” he said.

Asked about individuals bringing children to shopping malls, Nanta said the SOPs clearly state that the group is “not encouraged” to enter the premises but not prohibited because the government understands the problems faced by the people.

“For instance, there are single parents who need to bring along their children. If possible, please leave the children with close relatives and avoid bringing them into premises,” he said.

The minister also said that in-car dining services are not allowed, adding that there are no SOPs regarding the activity.

He said the idea of enjoying meals in the car with family members may have cropped up following the ban on dining in at eateries, but so far, no decision has been made on the matter.

According to news reports today, Sarawak police commissioner Aidi Ismail said providing in-car dining service was a violation of SOPs and premises owners could be issued compounds.

He said a food outlet in Miri was compounded last Friday for providing the service.