COVID-19 pandemic in Sarawak

On 13 March 2020, Sarawak has recorded its first Covid-19 cases, with three patients tested positive for the virus in Kuching. The Sarawak Disaster Management Committee in a statement said 2 cases were from the cluster who attended a religious gathering at Sri Petaling Mosque in Kuala Lumpur on 28 February to 1 March, the third cases was a family member of case 2.[1]

On 14 March, The Sarawak Disaster Management Committee reported 6 new cases were recorded, bringing the total of positive cases to nine. The chairman, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah said 2 new cases were recorded in Limbang while 4 new cases were recorded in Kuching. All new cases were from the cluster who attended a religious gathering at Sri Petaling Mosque.[2]

On 15 March, Sarawak recorded 11 new positive cases of COVID-19, bringing the total to 20 cases. Among the 11 new cases, one of them was Sarikei MP Wong Ling Biu after tested positive for the virus in Sibu Hospital. Sarawak DAP chairman Chong Chieng Jen directed all party members and lawmakers who had close contact with the Sarikei MP in the last 14 days to self-quarantine for two weeks.[3]

On 16 March, State Minister of Local Government and Housing Datuk Sri Dr Sim Kui Hian said 14 new Covid-19 cases were recorded making the total cases to 34. Among the new cases, 6 are from Kuching, 4 from Betong, 2 from Sarikei and one each from Serian and Simunjan.[4] One of the 2 cases from Sarikei was Malaysian national hammer thrower Jackie Wong Siew Cheer as he was tested positive for the virus in Sibu Hospital after visiting his father, Sarikei MP Wong Ling Biu who was also tested positive for the virus on 15 March.[5]

On 17 March, Sarawak records nation first Covid-19 death involving Patient 18. The victim died at Sarawak General Hospital. Sarawak also recorded 11 new positive cases bringing the total to 45. Out of 11 new cases, 6 are from Kuching, 3 from Limbang and one each from Betong and Lawas.[6]

On 18 March, Sarawak Disaster Management Committee confirms 5 new positive cases for Covid-19 with 2 patients currently treated in Sarawak General Hospital, 2 in Sibu Hospital and one in Bintulu Hospital.[7] The Sarawak government has enforced measures that align with the federal government movement control order from 18 March to 31 March 2020.[8] On 19 March, Sarawak recorded one new positive case in Kuching making the total to 51.[9] Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) has put together a team from various agencies to reduce the spread of the coronavirus. This includes the monitoring of immigration of those entering and exiting Sarawak, combating fake news[10] and digital surveillance. Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA) together with a Sarawak-based technology development company, SOCOE Sdn Bhd developed enterSarawak an online system was developed within 36 hours after the announcement of the MCO called ‘enterSarawak’ – a web-based fully integrated system that allows SDMC to have complete control as well as monitor the comings and goings of the people in Sarawak.[11] enterSarawak serves as the first point of contact for the public to get permission to enter or exit the state. This includes short term entry into the state for transit passengers, flight crew, freight and shipping personnel as well as essential services staff. [12]

On 20 March, Sarawak recorded 7 new COVID-19 cases bringing the total to 58 cases. Sarawak Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah said all 7 cases were reported in Kuching and are currently treated at Sarawak General Hospital. 4 of the cases are among the cluster who attended a religious gathering at Sri Petaling Mosque in Kuala Lumpur on 28 February to 1 March. 2 cases were local church cluster while one are still under investigation.[13] State Disaster Management Committee has identified 4 possible Covid-19 clusters other then the religious gathering at Sri Petaling Mosque namely Emmanuel Baptist Church Kuching cluster, Good News Fellowship Church cluster, DAP fundraising dinner cluster and Josephian Day cluster at SMK St Joseph Kuching. Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA) has come up with a tracking device to be used by those under home quarantine which will be attached to their wrists and a digital mapping method would also be used to identify hotspots of COVID-19 infections to prevent its spread.[14]

On 21 March, Sarawak's National Safety Council branch had identified seven hotspots related to the pandemic, which are Kuching, Serian, Betong, Sarikei, Bintulu, Miri and Limbang.[15] Another two deaths in the state involving a 79-year-old woman and her 40-year-old daughter were reported within the day.[16] Sarawak Disaster Management Committee reported 10 new positive cases in the state (inclusive both that died on the same day) making the total to 68 cases.[17]

On 22 March, Sarawak Disaster Management Committee recorded 8 new positive Covid-19 cases bringing the total to 76.[18] On 23 March, Sarawak announced 2 new Covid-19 deaths involving a 49-year-old man from Kuching and a 51-year-old woman from Limbang. Sarawak also recorded 6 new positive Covid-19 cases, all from Kuching bringing the total cases to 82.[19] Sarawak Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg announced RM1.15 billion special aid package to reduce Covid-19 impact on the state.[20]

On 24 March, Sarawak recorded 5 new positive Covid-19 cases with 2 each from Sarawak General Hospital and Sibu Hospital and one in Miri Hospital. According to Sarawak Disaster Management Committee clusters statistic, one of the new cases in Sarawak General Hospital is from the religious gathering at Sri Petaling Mosque in Kuala Lumpur while the other one are connected to the church cluster. The 2 new cases in Sibu Hospital are also from the religious gathering at Sri Petaling Mosque in Kuala Lumpur.[21]

On 25 March, 4 new positive cases were recorded, bringing the total to 91.[22] Another 4 new positive cases were detected the following day.[23]

On 27 March, Sarawak Disaster Management Committee said 15 new cases recorded where all of the cases are treated at Sarawak General Hospital. 7 of them have been traced to having close contacts with three family members who succumbed to the virus due to an imported case from Italy, 4 from the Good News Fellowship Church in Kuching and the other four to the religious gathering at Sri Petaling Mosque in Kuala Lumpur.[24]

On 28 March, Sarawak recorded 8 new positive cases with 7 cases are treated at Sarawak General Hospital and one at Sibu Hospital. Sarawak also recorded 9 positive patients recovered and has been discharged from hospital.[25] On 29 March, 11 new cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital bringing the total to 129.[26]

On 30 March, Sarawak recorded 2 Covid-19 deaths, one from Sarawak General Hospital and another one from Miri Hospital. 6 new cases were recorded in the state making the total to 135 where 3 cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital, 2 in Miri Hospital and one in Sibu Hospital.[27] On 31 March, Sarawak recorded nation's first foreign Covid-19 death involving Indonesian lecturer in Sarawak General Hospital. 21 new cases recorded in the state and 5 more patients recovered and discharged from hospital.[28]

On 1 April, Sarawak recorded 32 new positive cases with one from Samarahan and the rest from Kuching.[29] On 2 April, Sarawak Disaster Management Committee said 23 new cases and 1 death were recorded bringing the total cases to 211.[30] Another 28 new cases recorded in the state the following day.[31]

On 4 April, Sarawak recorded 1 more Covid-19 death bringing the death toll to 10 deaths. The state also recorded 15 new positive cases with 13 from Sarawak General Hospital and one each from Sibu Hospital and Miri Hospital.[32] On 5 April, 10 new positive cases were recorded in the state with 2 new deaths from the Sarawak General Hospital.[33]

On 6 April, 9 new positive Covid-19 cases recorded bringing the total to 273. 34 positive patients have recovered and discharged from hospital to date.[34] Another 15 new cases recorded in the state the following day with 14 cases were being treated at Sarawak General Hospital and one at Miri Hospital.[35]

On 8 April, Sarawak Disaster Management Committee said 18 new cases recorded making the total to 306. 39 positive patients have recovered and discharged from hospital to date.[36]

On 9 April, Sarawak recorded another death involving a 23-year-old student from Universiti Malaysia Sarawak who lived in Kota Samarahan and was admitted to Sarawak General Hospital on 30 March. She was the 5th generation of the Good News Fellowship Church cluster in Kuching. Sarawak also recorded 6 new positive cases bringing the total to 312 with 5 cases from Sarawak General Hospital and one from Bintulu Hospital.[37]

On 10 April, Sarawak Disaster Management Committee said 15 new positive cases recorded in Sarawak making the total to 327. 14 patients recovered and discharged from hospital bringing it to 53 recovered to date.[38] 7 new cases recorded in Sarawak on 11 April, 12 April and 13 April respectively.[39][40][41] Another 15 new cases recorded in Sarawak bringing the total to 363.[42]

On 18 April, Sarawak recorded 6 new positive cases where all cases were admitted at Sarawak General Hospital bringing the total positive cases to 403. 2 new recoveries recorded in Sarawak General Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 57.[43] On 19 April, Sarawak recorded 5 new positive cases where all cases were admitted at Sarawak General Hospital bringing the total positive cases to 408. 5 new recoveries recorded in Sarawak General Hospital and 2 more in Sibu Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 64.[44] On 20 April, Sarawak recorded 6 new positive cases where 4 cases were admitted at Sarawak General Hospital and 2 at Bintulu Hospital bringing the total positive cases to 414. 4 new recoveries recorded in Sarawak General Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 68.[45]

On 21 April, Sarawak recorded 22 new positive cases where all cases were admitted at Sarawak General Hospital bringing the total positive cases to 436. 20 new recoveries recorded in Sarawak General Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 88. 1 fatality recorded in the state involving a 69-year-old male who was admitted to Sarawak General Hospital on 3 April and was found positive Covid-19 on 7 April.[46] On 22 April, Sarawak recorded 19 new positive cases where 18 cases were admitted at Sarawak General Hospital and one at Miri Hospital bringing the total positive cases to 455. 17 new recoveries recorded with 15 in Sarawak General Hospital, one each in Sibu Hospital and Miri Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 105. 1 fatality recorded in the state involving a 72-year-old female from Sri Aman who was admitted to Sarawak General Hospital on 20 April and was found positive Covid-19 on 22 April.[47] On 23 April, Sarawak recorded 4 new positive cases where 3 cases were admitted at Sarawak General Hospital and one at Miri Hospital bringing the total positive cases to 459. 27 new recoveries recorded with 21 in Sarawak General Hospital, 2 in Sibu Hospital, 1 in Bintulu Hospital and 3 in Miri Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 131.[48]

On 24 April, Sarawak recorded 9 new positive cases where all cases were admitted at Sarawak General Hospital bringing the total positive cases to 468. 17 new recoveries recorded with 16 in Sarawak General Hospital and one in Sibu Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 147. 4 more divisions which previously classified as yellow zone namely Mukah, Sarikei, Sibu and Limbang were now classified as green zone as these divisions recorded 0 cases in the last 14 days.[49] On 25 April, Sarawak recorded 10 new positive cases where 9 cases were admitted at Sarawak General Hospital and one at Miri Hospital bringing the total positive cases to 478. 2 new recoveries recorded where all cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 150.[50] On 26 April, Sarawak recorded 7 new positive cases where 6 cases were admitted at Sarawak General Hospital and one at Miri Hospital bringing the total positive cases to 485. 29 new recoveries recorded where 25 cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital, one in Sibu Hospital and 3 in Miri Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 179.[51] On 27 April, Sarawak recorded 3 new positive cases where 2 cases were admitted at Sarawak General Hospital and one at Bintulu Hospital bringing the total positive cases to 488. 17 new recoveries recorded where 16 cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital and one in Miri Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 194.[52]

On 28 April, Sarawak recorded 8 new positive cases where 7 cases were admitted at Sarawak General Hospital and one at Miri Hospital bringing the total positive cases to 496. 11 new recoveries recorded where 6 cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital, 4 in Miri Hospital and one in Sibu Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 204. Limbang is now classified as yellow zone again from green zone as the division recorded 1 new positive case.[53] On 29 April, Sarawak recorded 6 new positive cases where all cases were admitted at Sarawak General Hospital bringing the total positive cases to 502. 12 new recoveries recorded where 9 cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital and 3 in Miri Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 216.[54] On 30 April, Sarawak recorded 5 new positive cases where all cases were admitted at Sarawak General Hospital bringing the total positive cases to 507. 6 new recoveries recorded where all cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 222. 1 fatality recorded in the state involving a 72-year-old male from Kuching who was admitted to Sarawak Heart Centre in Kota Samarahan on 13 April and was found positive Covid-19 on 18 April.[55]

On 1 May, Sarawak recorded 2 new positive cases where all cases were admitted at Sarawak General Hospital bringing the total positive cases to 509. 33 new recoveries recorded where 32 cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital and one in Miri Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 255. Betong is now classified as green zone from yellow zone as the division recorded 0 new positive case in the last 14 days.[56] On 2 May, Sarawak recorded 9 new positive cases where all cases were admitted at Sarawak General Hospital bringing the total positive cases to 518. 19 new recoveries recorded where all cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 271.[57]

On 3 May, Sarawak recorded 5 new positive cases where 4 cases were admitted at Sarawak General Hospital and one in Sibu Hospital bringing the total positive cases to 523. 11 new recoveries recorded where all cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 282.[58] On 4 May, Sarawak recorded 0 new positive cases for the first time since 13 March 2020. 19 new recoveries recorded where 18 cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital and one in Miri Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 301.[59]

On 5 May, Sarawak recorded 2 new positive cases where all cases were admitted at Sarawak General Hospital bringing the total positive cases to 525. 9 new recoveries recorded where 8 cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital and one in Miri Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 310.[60] On 6 May, Sarawak recorded 11 new positive cases where all cases were admitted at Sarawak General Hospital bringing the total positive cases to 536. 26 new recoveries recorded where 25 cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital and one in Bintulu Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 334.[61]

On 7 May, Sarawak recorded 1 new positive cases where the case were admitted at Sarawak General Hospital bringing the total positive cases to 537. 3 new recoveries recorded where all cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 329.[62] On 8 May, Sarawak recorded 1 new positive cases where the case were admitted at Sarawak General Hospital bringing the total positive cases to 538. 6 new recoveries recorded where 5 cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital and one in Sibu Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 334.[63]

On 9 May, Sarawak recorded 4 new positive cases where all cases were admitted at Sarawak General Hospital bringing the total positive cases to 542. 16 new recoveries recorded where all cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 350. Sarawak also recorded 17 re-tested positive cases where 8 cases admitted to Sarawak General Hospital, 7 in Sibu Hospital and 2 in Bintulu Hospital.[64] On 10 May, Sarawak recorded 1 new positive cases where the case were admitted at Sarawak General Hospital bringing the total positive cases to 543. 10 new recoveries recorded where all cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 360.[65]

On 11 May, Sarawak recorded 0 new positive cases bringing the total positive cases to 543. 9 new recoveries recorded where all cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 369. Bintulu is now classified as green zone from yellow zone as the division recorded 0 new positive case in the last 14 days.[66] On 12 May, no positive cases recorded in the state bringing the total positive cases remain 543. 6 new recoveries recorded where 4 cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital, one in Sibu Hospital and one in Miri Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 375. Limbang is now classified as green zone from yellow zone as the division recorded 0 new positive case in the last 14 days.[67]

On 13 May, Sarawak recorded 1 new positive cases bringing the total positive cases to 544. 16 new recoveries recorded where 14 cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital and 2 in Sibu Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 390.[68] On 14 May, no positive cases recorded in the state bringing the total positive cases remain 544. 9 new recoveries recorded where 8 cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital and one in Sibu Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 399.[69]

On 15 May, no positive cases recorded in the state bringing the total positive cases remain 544. 6 new recoveries recorded where all cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 405. Kuching is now classified as yellow zone from red zone where the number of new cases are less than 40 in the last 14 days.[70] On 16 May, no positive cases recorded in the state bringing the total positive cases remain 544. 23 new recoveries recorded where 19 cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital, 3 in [:ms:Hospital Bintulu]Bintulu Hospital and one in Sibu Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 428.[71]

On 17 May, no positive cases recorded in the state bringing the total positive cases remain 544. 4 new recoveries recorded where all cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 432. On 18 May, no positive cases recorded in the state bringing the total positive cases remain 544.[72] 4 new recoveries recorded where 3 cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital and one in Sibu Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 435.[73] On 19 May, no positive cases recorded in the state bringing the total positive cases remain 544. 2 new recoveries recorded where one cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital and another one in Sibu Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 437.[74]

On 20 May, no positive cases recorded in the state bringing the total positive cases remain 544. 2 new recoveries recorded where one cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital and another one in Sibu Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 439. Samarahan is now classified as green zone from yellow zone as the division recorded 0 new positive case in the last 14 days.[75] On 21 May, no positive cases recorded in the state bringing the total positive cases remain 544. 16 new recoveries recorded where all cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 455.[76]

On 22 May, Sarawak recorded 1 new positive cases where the case were admitted at Sarawak General Hospital bringing the total positive cases to 545. 4 new recoveries recorded where 3 cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital and one in Bintulu Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 459.[77] On 23 May, no positive cases recorded in the state bringing the total positive cases remain 545. 5 new recoveries recorded where all cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 464.[78]

On 24 May, no positive cases recorded in the state bringing the total positive cases remain 545. 6 new recoveries recorded where 4 cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital and 4 in Bintulu Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 470.[79] On 25 May, Sarawak recorded 4 new positive cases where 2 cases were admitted at Sarawak General Hospital, one in Sibu Hospital and one in Bintulu Hospital bringing the total positive cases to 549. 3 new recoveries recorded where 2 cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital and one in Sibu Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 473. Serian, Bintulu and Tanjung Manis is now classified as yellow zone from green zone after each district recorded one new positive cases.[80]

On 27 May, Sarawak recorded 3 new positive cases where all cases were admitted at Sarawak General Hospital bringing the total positive cases to 552. 3 new recoveries recorded where 2 cases recorded in Bintulu Hospital and one in Sibu Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 476. Samarahan is now classified as yellow zone from green zone as the division recorded one new positive cases. Sibu is now classified as green zone from yellow zone as the division recorded 0 new positive case in the last 14 days.[81] On 28 May, no positive cases recorded in the state bringing the total positive cases remain 552. 10 new recoveries recorded where 3 cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital, 3 cases in Sibu Hospital, 2 cases in Bintulu Hospital and 2 cases in Miri Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 486.[82]

On 29 May, no positive cases recorded in the state bringing the total positive cases remain 552. 13 new recoveries recorded where all cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 499.[83] On 30 May, no positive cases recorded in the state bringing the total positive cases remain 552. 2 new recoveries recorded where all cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 501.[84] On 31 May, no positive cases recorded in the state bringing the total positive cases remain 552. 7 new recoveries recorded where all cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 508.[85]

On 2 June, no positive cases recorded in the state bringing the total positive cases remain 552. 11 new recoveries recorded where 10 cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital and one in Sibu Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 519.[86] On 3 June, no positive cases recorded in the state bringing the total positive cases remain 552. 1 new recoveries recorded where the cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 520.[87] On 4 June, no positive cases recorded in the state bringing the total positive cases remain 552. 3 new recoveries recorded where 2 cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital and one in Sibu Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 523.[88]

On 5 June, Sarawak recorded one new positive cases where the case were admitted at Sarawak General Hospital bringing the total positive cases to 553. No new recoveries recorded in the state bringing the total recoveries cases remain 523.[89] On 6 June, Sarawak recorded 2 new positive cases where all cases were admitted at Sarawak General Hospital bringing the total positive cases to 555. 1 new recoveries recorded where the cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 524.[90] On 7 June, no positive cases recorded in the state bringing the total positive cases remain 555. 1 new recoveries recorded where the cases recorded in Sibu Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 525.[91]

On 9 June, Sarawak detected foreign worker cluster in Kuching after recorded one new positive cases involving Indonesian worker where the case were admitted at Sarawak General Hospital bringing the total positive cases to 556. No new recoveries recorded in the state bringing the total recoveries cases remain 525.[92] On 10 June, no positive cases recorded in the state bringing the total positive cases remain 556. 1 new recoveries recorded where the cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 526.[93] On 11 June, no positive cases recorded in the state bringing the total positive cases remain 556. 5 new recoveries recorded where 4 cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital and one in Bintulu Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 531.[94]

On 13 June, no positive cases recorded in the state bringing the total positive cases remain 556. 5 new recoveries recorded where all cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 533.[95] On 14 June, Sarawak recorded one new positive cases where the case were admitted at Bintulu Hospital bringing the total positive cases to 557. No new recoveries recorded in the state bringing the total recoveries cases remain 533.[96] On 15 June, no positive cases recorded in the state bringing the total positive cases remain 557. 5 new recoveries recorded where all cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 534.[97]

On 16 June, Sarawak recorded 3 new positive cases where all cases were admitted at Bintulu Hospital bringing the total positive cases to 560. No new recoveries recorded in the state bringing the total recoveries cases remain 534.[98] On 17 June, Sarawak recorded one new positive cases where the case were admitted at Bintulu Hospital bringing the total positive cases to 561. No new recoveries recorded in the state bringing the total recoveries cases remain 534.[99] On 18 June, Sarawak recorded 4 new positive cases where all cases were admitted at Sarawak General Hospital bringing the total positive cases to 565. No new recoveries recorded in the state bringing the total recoveries cases remain 534.[100]

On 19 June, Director-General Noor Hisham Abdullah identified a new cluster consisting of six cases in Kidurong, Sarawak. The index case was a university student who had tested positive for COVID-19 on 12 June. Contact tracing identified 231 people who had been contact with the patient, 163 of whom had tested negative for the virus.[101] Sarawak recorded one new positive cases where the case were admitted at Bintulu Hospital bringing the total positive cases to 566. 1 new recoveries recorded where the cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 535.[102] On 21 June, Sarawak recorded 3 new positive cases where all cases were admitted at Bintulu Hospital bringing the total positive cases to 569. No new recoveries recorded in the state bringing the total recoveries cases remain 534.[103]

On 24 June, Sarawak recorded one new positive cases where the case were admitted at Sarawak General Hospital bringing the total positive cases to 570. No new recoveries recorded in the state bringing the total recoveries cases remain 535.[104] On 25 June, no positive cases recorded in the state bringing the total positive cases remain 570. 2 new recoveries recorded where all cases recorded in Sarawak General Hospital making the total recoveries in the state to 537.[105] On 28 June, Sarawak recorded one new positive cases where the case were admitted at Sibu Hospital bringing the total positive cases to 571. No new recoveries recorded in the state bringing the total recoveries cases remain 537.[106]

On 16 March, Sarawak Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg announced several control measures to prevent Covid-19 infections from further escalating in the state. Among the several control measures imposed are:[119]

1. All schools in Sarawak have been advised to extend their holidays for another week until 29 March 2020.
2. All preschools, kindergartens and tahfiz schools state-wide are instructed to close for two weeks effective 17 March 2020.
3. Higher education institutions, both government and private, are to defer their new academic session by two weeks, effective 17 March 2020.
4. All state government official functions involving more than 50 people will be cancelled or postponed until further notice.
5. All visitors (foreign and domestic) coming into Sarawak and returning Sarawakians will be issued with a 14-day Stay Home Notice (SHN). This includes Sarawak residents, and long-term and short-term pass holders. This will take effect on 18 March 2020.
6. The relevant agencies will monitor the Stay Home Notice holders through random visits, phone calls and modern technology applications.
7. Exemptions will only be given by the state Health Department to those required to travel under special circumstances, such as official and business duties.
8. Everyone is advised to practice the highest standard of personal hygiene and to strictly practice social distancing.

On 18 March, The Sarawak government has advised all government offices (except essential services), business premises (except business premises dealing with daily essentials) and factories (except those in Samalaju, Hi-Tech Samajaya, and plywood factories which are allowed to operate with minimum staffs) will be closed. Restaurant and eateries are allowed to open and operate for takeaways only (drinking/dining in the premises are prohibited). People are allowed to leave houses, but for purchasing essential items, important goods and services only.[8]

On 19 March, Sarawak Government and Housing Ministry orders all food premises and stalls to close by 8PM (UTC+8) daily throughout the movement control order period.[120]

On 20 March, All fast food outlets (including drive thru services) and supermarkets will stop operation by 8PM (UTC+8) but convenience store and petrol station will operate as usual.[121]

On 22 March, The Sarawak Disaster Management Committee said all hypermarkets, supermarkets, markets, coffee shops, private clinics, restaurants, 24-hour convenience stores and petrol stations in the state are to cease operations from 7PM to 7AM (UTC+8) starting from 24 March 2020.[122]

On 25 March, State Disaster Management Committee in a meeting agreed to allow pet shops and veterinary clinics to operate business throughout Movement Control Order (MCO) period from 7AM to 7PM with immediate effect.[22]

On 26 March, Sarawak Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg has issued directives to ensures there is continuous supply of food:[23]

1. Farmers, breeders and fishermen can continue with their daily routines.
2. Farmers, breeders and fishermen are allowed to sell their products at places agreed by the local council from 7AM - 7PM (UTC+8).

On 29 March, Sarawak has imposed a ban on inter-district travel, and those with valid reasons for travelling must obtain permits from the district office.[123]

On 5 April, All hardware shops, agricultural supply stores and sparepart shops are allowed to open twice a week, Tuesday and Thursday from 7AM - 7PM (UTC+8).[33]

On 13 April, All barber shops are not allowed to open despite extension of nationwide Movement Control Order.[41]

On 18 April, State Disaster Management Committee said all farmers and their wives are allowed to travel in the same vehicle or motorcycle to go to their farms despite 1 person per vehicle rule during Movement Control Order. Telecommunication companies such as Celcom, Digi, Maxis and U Mobile and their dealers are allowed to reopen their business operations on Wednesday and Friday from 10AM - 4PM (UTC+8) with only 3 workers maximum at any given time as they are considered as providing essential services to the public. However, they can only operate from selected premises.[124]

On 21 April, Baking specialty stores selling baking ingredients, accessories and containers, are allowed to operate twice a week, Wednesday and Friday from 7AM - 7PM (UTC+8) in view of upcoming Gawai and Hari Raya. All laundry shops (serviced and self-service) are not allowed to operate during MCO.[125]

On 23 April, State Disaster Management Committee said all individual food vendors, hotels, restaurants and fast food restaurants were allowed to operate for takeaways via e-Bazaar Ramadhan from 7AM - 7PM (UTC+8) throughout Ramadan. Food trucks are not allowed to operate during MCO.[126][127]

On 30 April, Sarawak has decided to allow 2 immediate family members from the same household to travel in a vehicle with immediate effect for purposes of seeking healthcare and medical services, or to buy food, medicine, daily necessities, dietary supplements or any other goods from any provider of essential services.[128]

On 2 May, Sarawak has decided not to implement the Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO) that will allow the reopening of certain economic activities and sectors this May 4 as announced by Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin.[129]

On 9 May, Sarawak will allow various economic activities to reopen on May 12 with strict compliance to standard operating procedures (SOP).[131]

On 12 May, Sarawak Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah said business in Sarawak are allowed to open between 7AM - 10PM (UTC+8) during the Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO) period.[132]

On 14 May, Sarawak gazetted the Protection of Public Health Ordinance, which will be in effect from 14 May to June 9, in a bid to further contain the spread of Covid-19.[133]

On 4 June, All barber shops and hair salons are allowed to operate starting 9 June 2020 but only haircuts service. Nature Reserves such as Samajaya, Bukit Lima, Bukit Sembiling and Piasau will be opened from 8 June 2020 following the drawn up SOP.[134]

On 12 June, All sports centres and beauty salons are allowed to resume operations. starting 17 June.[135]

On 15 June, All 24-hour operations such as fuel stations, 7-Eleven, KFC, McDonald's, and 24-hour restaurants are allowed to operate, however must abide by the guidelines and SOP. Religious activities are allowed starting 20 June as house of worship (for non-Muslim) is ready to reopen.[136]

On 17 June, Sarawak will allow express and stage buses to operate at full capacity in the state. School bus and vans are permitted to resume operation at full capacity as schools will be reopen on 24 June. Licensed gambling operators are also allowed to resume operation starting 19 June. Day, night markets and weekend markets are allowed to operate as well starting 20 June.[137]

On 28 June, Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas announced that that the Sarawak Disaster Management Committee would be conducting random tests on construction workers in cities beginning nextweek in response to a spate of cases among construction sites. Besides COVID-19, they would also be testing for rabies and dengue fever as well.[138]

The following warnings and quarantine arrangements for inbound and outbound travel to the state are for both foreigners and Malaysian including Sarawakians:

Alert level	Country	Date of enforcement	Status	Note
Prohibit	All nations	18 March 2020	In force	In response to the 18 March – 28 April nationwide Movement Control Order, all foreigners are ban from entering or exiting Malaysian border, whether by air, sea or land.[139]
Prohibit	China	1 February 2020	In force	In response to the 2020 coronavirus pandemic in Mainland China, the state government has refused entry to all Chinese nationals and foreigners who have travelled to China.[140]
Prohibit	South Korea	28 February 2020	In force	In response to the 2020 coronavirus pandemic in South Korea, the state government has refused entry to all South Korean nationals and foreigners who have travelled to South Korea.[141]
Prohibit	Denmark	14 March 2020	In force	In response to the 2020 coronavirus pandemic in Denmark and its recent lockdown, the Malaysian government announced a travel ban to the country.[142]
Prohibit	Iran  Italy	4 March 2020	In force	In response to the 2020 coronavirus pandemic in Iran and Italy, the state government has refused entry to all Iranian and Italian nationals and foreigners who have travelled to one of the countries.[143]
Strongly advised	Brunei  Indonesia  Japan  Singapore		In force	Visitors and Malaysian that visited Singapore, Brunei, Indonesia and Japan must adhere to precautionary guidelines issued by the state Health Department at all entry points into Sarawak.[144]

On 4 April, all Sarawakians that returns from overseas must undergo a 14-days quarantine upon arrivals at quarantine centres arranged by state government for observation and supervision for Covid-19 infection.[32] On 5 April, State Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said all foreigners were now banned from transiting in Sarawak, whether by air, sea or land. This decision comes into effect immediately.[33]

On 13 June, Senior Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob announced that Malaysians from peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, and Labuan would be allowed to enter Sarawak without having to seek permission from the Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC).[145]

Prohibition dated 1 February 2020 issued by the Government of Sarawak.

On 29 January, all visitors entering Sarawak are required to declare the status of their health as part of efforts to contain COVID-19 infection in the state where they are required to fill in the health declaration form provided at all entry points in the state, including border checkpoints and onboard aircraft. The regulation also applies to visitors driving vehicles who arrive via ferry from Labuan and flight passengers from Mulu National Park as there are direct flights from Kota Kinabalu to the location.[146]

On 21 March, Sarawak Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg said all border posts in Sarawak will be closed with immediate effect to prevent further spread of COVID-19 except Customs, Immigration and Quarantine Complexes (CIQs) between Sarawak and Brunei (Sungai Tujuh, Tedungan, Pandaruan and Mengkalap) would be open from 6 am to 8 pm (UTC+8) while CIQs between Sarawak and Kalimantan (Tebedu, Biawak and Lubok Antu) would be open between 9 am and 3 pm (UTC+8).[147]

On 27 March, Sarawak Disaster Management Committee chairman Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah said border between Sarawak and Brunei will be open from 6 am to 6 pm (UTC+8) effective 28 March 2020.[24]

On 15 March, immediately after the spikes of the cases which related to the religious gathering at Sri Petaling Mosque in Kuala Lumpur on 28 February to 1 March, State Disaster Management Committee in a statement said all government and public gatherings involving the participation of more than 50 people in Sarawak must be postponed to a later date.[148]

On 5 April, Sarawak government announced that Ramadhan and Gawai Bazaar will be canceled in the state to ensure the safety of Sarawakians.[149]

i-Alerts is one of the Sarawak government’s initiatives to keep Sarawakians updated with the Covid-19 situation in Sarawak. More importantly, the official mobile app can help the state combat fake news during this crisis.[150] i-Alerts brings together all disaster-related agencies and units to ensure an always accurate and up-to-date situation updates to ensure Sarawak citizens stay constantly informed and in the know with news and videos.[151] The official app is managed by the State Disaster Management Committee and information on the app is available in three languages namely English, Bahasa Melayu and Mandarin.[152] Sarawakians are advised to download i-Alerts on their mobile devices not just to be kept in the loop of the Covid-19 situation, but to also play an active role in helping to contain the spread of the disease.[153] Android users can download i-Alerts via the Google Play Store while Apple users can do the same via the App Store by searching the name " i-Alerts ". [154]

On 26 March, Sarawak has received 20,000 face masks from China's Fujian province. Provincial government of Fujian donated these face masks as a friendship agreement with Sarawak, through the Chinese consulate. Provincial government of Fujian also provided assistance through a video conferencing session between their medical specialists and those in Sarawak. The Shandong provincial government, which is another friendship state with Sarawak, will send more masks through the consulate in the coming week.[155]

On 23 March, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Raghad Kurdi Taib, wife of Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud, has donated RM60,000 to the Sarawak General Hospital in the battle against the Covid-19 pandemic.[156]

On 25 March, Leading medical/healthcare beds, peripherals and accessories provider LKL International Bhd (LKL International) will supply RM6.6 million worth of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to the Sarawak state government for onward distribution to public hospitals under the Sarawak State Health Department and the frontline healthcare personnel in their battle against Covid-19.[157]

On 30 March, Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Sarawak, Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud donates various equipment and essential items, worth RM120,500 to the Sarawak General Hospital (SGH) today, to help in the treatment of COVID-19 patients. The Governor also donated 700 food packs and mineral water to Sarawak Police Operations Room, to be distributed to police, Armed Forces a well as People's Volunteer Corps (RELA) personnel who are carrying out roadblocks during Movement Control Order (MCO).[158]

On 23 March, Sarawak Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg announced RM1.15 billion Sarawakku Sayang special aid package including 16 measures to reduce Covid-19 impact on the state:[20]

1. Domestic, Commercial and Industrial consumers given a discount of five per cent to 25 per cent on monthly electricity bill for April until September 2020.
2. Domestic, Commercial and Industrial consumers given discount of 10 per cent to 25 per cent on their monthly water bill for April until September 2020.
3. Sarawakian from the low-income category, the B40 group will be provided a monthly cash pay-out of RM250 for 6-months.
4. Special monthly incentives for frontline personnel involved in Covid-19.
5. Discount of 50 per cent for rental of market and stalls covering a period of six months up to September 2020.
6. Waiver of permits and licenses fees for traders, hawkers, night market traders, Tamu and bazaar Ramadhan operations.
7. Discount of 25 per cent on annual assessment rate above RM400 threshold given to residential, commercial, industrial and special purpose holdings for the year 2020.
8. Deferment of loan repayment for Skim Pinjaman Industri Kecil dan Sederhana (SPIKS).
9. Additional RM20 million for SMEs to expand their business and to sustain their businesses.
10. Discount of 30 per cent for payments of land rents to all land uses for the year 2020.
11. Deferment of land premiums.
12. Sarawak Government have placed an order of two million pieces of face masks to be distributed free to Sarawakians through the State Disaster Management Committee.
13. Providing dedicated support to physicians and practices on the front lines of testing, diagnosing, and treating patients at risk of COVID-19.
14. Providing dedicated supports of food supplies to physicians and practitioners on the front lines of testing, diagnosing, and treating patients at risk of COVID-19.
15. Discount of 50 per cent for rental of HDC Houses rental scheme covering a period of six (6) months up to September 2020.

On 30 March, Sarawak Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg has announced an additional RM16.4 million to the RM1.15 billion Sarawakku Sayang special aid package in food assistance for the poor in rural and urban areas to mitigate the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic in the state. The aid was for those who were homeless and who had lost their jobs to reduce their burden.[159]

On 10 April, Sarawak Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg announced additional RM1.1 billion Sarawakku Sayang Assistance Package 2.0 to assist SMEs including 4 measures:[160]

1. Interest-free soft loan for SMEs.
2. Special grant of RM1,500 to hawkers and petty traders through Sarawak Pay.
3. Abolishment of 2% interest rates to 0% for 3.5 years under micro credit scheme.
4. Waiver for rentals to SMEs in retail sector operating on premises owned by state GLCs

On 8 May, Sarawak Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg announced third economic stimulus package, Sarawakku Sayang Assistance Package 3.0, worth RM300 million to reduce the people’s burden following the Covid-19 pandemic, particularly those who had missed out on the two earlier packages. The new package are consisted of seven measures:[161]

1. One-off cash payment of RM500 to 377,806 single Sarawakians aged 21 and above earning less than RM2,000 a month.
2. One-off cash payment of RM500 to each registered “penambang” (river taxi) owner.
3. One-off cash payment of RM600 to 959 licensed van operators, 1,976 taxi drivers and 739 school buses and van operators.
4. Special grant of RM1,500 to 145 tourist guides and 113 park guides.
5. One-off grant of RM1,500 to an estimated 500 members of the media for their contribution in covering the Covid-19 outbreak.