GEORGE TOWN: The first two Omicron variant cases in Penang have been detected in travellers returning from overseas, with both individuals sent to the Kepala Batas Hospital for observation.

       "The travellers (came in via) KLIA.

       "Contact tracing has been conducted and until now we have found no other cases," Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow told a press conference after a walkabout at Lebuh Campbell on Monday (Dec 27).

       He urged Penangites to continue adhering to standard operating procedures to protect themselves.

       "Some time (soon), we expect the Health Ministry to announce a shortened time-frame between taking the second dose (of Covid-19 vaccine) and the booster jab.

       "This means people can start getting their booster shots by then and we hope everyone will start monitoring their MySejahtera for their appointments," he added.