Drones To Help Ensure No Open Houses & Visits In Neighbourhoods During Raya

Drones to ensure SOPs in place during Raya

Technology is part and parcel of our everyday lives, and we even have robot servers at restaurants now. More recently, drones were used to ensure Ramadan bazaar visitors were physical distancing. With many ringing in Aidilfitri Hari Raya tomorrow, 13th May 2021, drones will be used and operated by authorities in the latest efforts to monitor SOP compliance during the festivities.

Drones used to monitor residential areas

On 11th May, Bernama reported Bukit Aman Internal Security and Public Order Department SAC (Operations) SAC M V Sri Kumar saying that police officers will be using drones to monitor residential areas and make sure SOPs are followed there.

Previously, authorities have said that house visits were allowed, but that has since changed since the nationwide MCO from 12th May till 7th June was announced. House visits will now no longer be permitted during the Raya festivities.

Image credit: PDRM DRONE UNIT

That said, district police chiefs will make the final decision on whether or not to use drones to monitor if SOPs are adhered to.

Those living in high-rise residential areas will not have to worry about their privacy, however, as it is said that police will check visitor logs at entry points instead.

Image credit: PDRM DRONE UNIT

Authorities are also encouraging residents to report anyone who is not following SOPs to the police. Also, fines will be issued to anyone found trying to travel between states and districts too.

House visits by the police to further monitor SOPs

Likewise, police are said to be making surprise visits to homes in the Petaling district during Raya, starting on 12th May, as reported by Malay Mail. 8 police teams have been dispatched to patrol neighbourhoods and check on potential SOP breaches among residents during the MCO, such as open houses or house visits.

Anyone who is caught hosting open houses will be subject to fines of RM25,000. Those dropping by for house visits will be fined RM5,000 too.

Use of drones during Raya to ensure safety measures are followed

Hari Raya marks a time of celebration and more for the Muslim community. But with several SOPs announced by the government for the festive season this year to help fight COVID-19 during these trying times, those celebrating will want to take note of them. This includes the use of drones and police visits to monitor neighbourhoods at this time – so don’t be all too surprised when you spot either one outside your windows this year.