Although life has started resuming to normalcy, the pandemic is not over yet. As such, many take precautions when they leave the house. They wear masks, bring hand sanitisers and are careful not to willy-nilly touch surfaces.
However careful they are, it’s still important that public places are properly sanitised to reduce the risk of one contracting Covid-19. This includes places like the train. Recently, RapidKL came under fire when their workers were observed doing their job carelessly.
Pls tell me this is fake! If it is true, the operators needs to terminate this contractor immediately! pic.twitter.com/W76YThLfqF
— Dev ⚽🏌️♂️⛳🏎️🤡☕🥩🚬🥃 (@devprasad888) September 30, 2021
An Instagram user was the first to record the incident. The video showed two workers swiping at the railing and brushing over the ceiling handles with their cloths. It quickly gained traction when it was reposted on Twitter. The user demanded the termination of the contractors, which was echoed by many.
RapidKL stepped in and made a public apology hours later. They clarified that the incident had taken place at the LRT Ampang station, which was the last station of the LRT Ampang/Sri Petaling Line. They agreed that the cleaning was hasty and dissatisfactory. “Such display of non-compliance to Rapid KL’s prescribed Covid-19 prevention measures is alarming and we have taken swift action to reprimand the vendor,” they said.
The contractor responsible for sanitising the trains has also apologised. RnD Resources Sdn. Bhd said they have taken disciplinary action towards the staff involved. They apologised again and promised they are committed to ensuring the safety and comfort of RapidKL’s commuters.
RAPID KL WILL ENSURE STRICT COMPLIANCE OF COVID-19 PREVENTION MEASURES
RAPID KL would like to apologise to all our passengers for the distress, anxiety and anger caused by a video that was circulating in social media yesterday. pic.twitter.com/XQ5N5JQVEM
— Ask Rapid KL (@askrapidkl) September 30, 2021
In addition to their apology, RapidKL included a video of how the cleaning should be done, hoping to reassure their customers. However, netizens weren’t too impressed. Some claimed it was all for show. Others scoffed, saying “This is standard in Malaysia, doing work half-heartedly.”
Yet, there were those who took the workers’ side, advising people to bring their own sanitisers and minimise touching surfaces. “We know what’s best for us. If we rely on others, it’s difficult,” one said. Another pointed out that the workers usually don’t have enough time as the train will leave again in 3-4 minutes. “I doubt they can cover the whole 6 train cars (within) the limited time,” they said.
Although we certainly hope RapidKL will step up their sanitisation game, we should take our own precaution. After all, prevention is better than cure. Continue to stay safe!
