KOTA KINABALU:The Jalan Gaya Sunday market or ‘tamu’, as called locally, which had been quiet due to the lack of visitors following the COVID -19 outbreak is bustling again after the relaxation of the Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO) standard operating procedure (SOP) recently.

A check by Bernama found the place, also known as ‘Gaya Street’ market among local and foreign tourists, having several stalls selling food, clothes, toys, pearls, batik, decorative items and more, with visitors adhering to the SOP.

Radiyah Hasran, 48, who sells beauty products at this ‘tamu’, said the traders felt relief with the CMCO new development which enabled them to earn income again there after being adversely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Although there has been an increase in the number of (COVID-19) cases, the public prefer that the rules be relaxed a bit and I think they are also able to comply with the SOP,” she added.

On Dec 7, the CMCO in Sabah was extended for 14 days. However, some rules have been relaxed for traders to be back in business, including on the operating hours and SOP set.

Pearl jewellery seller, Dani Dayani Imbran, 32, said previously, there had been many customers from the peninsula but the tight entry control into Sabah had reduced the number, hence affecting their business.

"Many lost their jobs or income, so it’s right that some of the conditions have been relaxed. When more people can fly to Sabah, the situation will further improve for us," she added.

Latim Alip, 60, a visitor met at the popular open market, said although some relaxation have been given under the CMCO, the COVID 19 threat was still present, so shoppers should still follow the rules like ensuring physical distancing.

Meanwhile, Kota Kinabalu City mayor, Datuk Nordin Siman said relaxation of the CMCO rules was a government initiative for the benefit of the people including the Gaya Street market traders after going through a difficult period.

"This is to revive the economy and to enable traders to continue doing business and generating income, but it is most important for them to follow the SOP, the true ‘vaccine’ for COVID-19.

“Efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19 must be supported by all by adhering to the SOP so that the pandemic does not make life difficult again for the people in Sabah,” he said.

-- BERNAMA