LETTERS: Traffic is expected to build up on most major highways in light of the Maulidur Rasul public holiday, especially following the government's decision to allow interstate travel.
The move by the authorities comes after Malaysia achieved its target of having 90 per cent of its adult population vaccinated against Covid-19.
The ban, while necessary to curb the spread of the Covid-19 virus, separated people from their loved ones, families and friends for months.
As usual, to some, the decision to permit interstate travel was welcomed, while others were against it. The truth is, there is no way of pleasing everyone.
The key is to strike a balance between lives and livelihoods and the need for things to return to normal.
Perhaps, we can agree that it might not be sustainable anymore for the country to undergo extended periods of lockdowns and travel bans.
The decision to allow interstate travel, dining in and the opening of more economic sectors are indicators that the situation is improving, but in no way does it mean we can throw caution to the wind.
It is safe to say we have the edge now with the benefits of the vaccine.
However, it must not be treated as an excuse to lower our guard and do away with the need to strictly adhere to the standard operating procedures.
We can all do our part to prevent the worst from happening. The onus is on all of us to be responsible and protect not only yourself, but those around you.
Heed the advice of the authorities to undergo self testing via the use of the Covid-19 antigen rapid test kits before travelling or heading for your hometowns.
Of course, this is on top of abiding by the SOP.
From a layman's point of view, the number of daily cases might go up and new clusters may be formed because of the increased movement, traffic flow and interaction.
We have come so far to achieve the leeway given now, but the whole situation can go belly up at any time if we repeat mistakes of the past.
I do not wish ill on anyone, but let me remind everybody that non-compliance with the SOP comes with a heavy price. Some have paid with their lives.
YEAP MING LIONG
Subang Jaya, Selangor
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times
