For avid shoppers who regularly cross the Causeway to snag sweet deals at Johor Bahru (JB) shopping malls, seeing large crowds is a normal scene.
But things were different early today (18 Mar), following the Movement Control Order that came into effect.
With strict advice to stay indoors, the usually bustling malls became empty, a far cry from what many of us recognise.
Void of shoppers milling about the different levels, JB City Square Mall looks like the setting of an apocalyptic movie.
All the stores were closed, save for the lone Guardian pharmacy, as per government orders.
Despite the closure, a few humans were still there, probably to get some health essentials or enjoy some aircon.
In case the emptiness still doesn’t strike you, here’s a picture of the mall on a regular day, with operational stores and shoppers.
While this sighting was only at City Square, we’re certain other malls across JB are witnessing the same phenomenon.
Over at the food places which remain open, the absence of chairs for people to sit in is tangible proof of the extent of the lockdown.
Not hearing the low murmurs of hungry patrons and the clanging of cutlery must be an odd experience for food sellers.
At least business is still on for many of them, who can continue selling their food, albeit only for takeaway orders.
Despite the continued operations, there’s no doubt that sales would likely be a lot slower over the next 2 weeks.
As many residents begin to abide by strict orders from the government, empty streets and public places will become the new norm, at least till 31 Mar.
Though facing this disruption to daily activities may be inconvenient to some, it’s done with everybody’s health and safety in mind.
Let’s hope that Malaysia’s drastic measures will help control Covid-19 infections there, so life can return to normal.
Featured image adapted from Singapore Atrium Sale on Facebook.
The residents were left with nothing but the clothes on their backs.
Four people sustained minor injuries.
The two burglars are reportedly still on the run.
The pair face rude behaviour almost daily, he says.
She told the man to earn his own money.
An autopsy confirmed that he died from cardiorespiratory arrest.