To allow dine-in or not to allow dine-in for those who have had their two doses of vaccination.
That is the question facing cafes, restaurants and hotels.
The conundrum arises when the staff and workers manning these outlets have not got their full vaccination but will have to interact with vaccinated guests.
Nevertheless, so far only the Light Hotel in Seberang Jaya is welcoming guests with two doses to dine-in.
Light Hotel general manager who is also the Malaysian Association of Hotels Penang Chapter chairman Raj Kumar said that they are opening up their al-fresco area on the third floor for buffet breakfast and ala carte for lunch and dinner.
“The open area has better ventilation and breezy all the time.
“We are guided and follow the direction of MKN (National Security Council) to allow guests with two doses (after 14 days) and also display the number of staff who have received vaccinations.
“The guest has the right to decide if they are comfortable to dine at any restaurant or hotel outlet,” said Raj.
In the meantime, Penang Chief Minister, Chow Kon Yeow said today that they will appeal to the MKN to require at least one dose vaccination for the workers before allowing them to serve or interact with customers for the food and beverage industry.
Meanwhile, many of the hotels when contacted by Penang Hyperlocal expressed that they will take the “wait and see” policy until clearer direction is provided from the authorities.
Among them are the G Hotel Gurney, Hard Rock Hotel Penang, Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa, Hompton By The Beach Penang, Bayview Hotel Georgetown, Cititel Penang, Royale Chulan Penang and Eastin Hotel Penang to name a few.