GEORGE TOWN: The state government has urged all Penangites to delay the Qing Ming festival during the Movement Control Order (MCO) period.
State Women & Family Development, Gender Inclusiveness and Religions other than Islam Committee chairman Chong Eng said after the MCO was imposed, she had received several enquiries asking whether tomb sweeping was allowed during the MCO.
"I have consulted Chinese customs experts and referred to announcements made by the Union of Malaysia Chinese Cemetery Associations. I hope that everyone abides by the MCO, stay at home and defer tomb sweeping activities, to prevent the spread of Covid-19," she said today.
According to the notice issued by Union of Malaysia Chinese Cemetery Associations, although Qing Ming falls on April 4 this year, tomb sweeping could be carried out 10 days after the actual day.
Each family could also worship at home during this MCO. If the situation improves after MCO, then the people can still go for tomb sweeping.
"Although filial piety and respect for elders are important, we need to first take care of ourselves and people surrounding us.
"It is important that all stakeholders give their full cooperation during the MCO period as doctors, nurses, paramedics and other health care workers in the front line have worked tirelessly to contain the spread of this disease.
"We need your support. Stay at home for yourself and your families, so that the frontliners will be able to return home to meet their loved ones,” she said.
“The conditions in Malaysia will most likely end up like Italy,” she added, urging that this period is crucial and each individual needs to co-operate to reduce the spread of Covid-19.