PETALING JAYA: With the Omicron variant spreading rapidly, some couples are opting to have dinner at home on Valentine’s Day next week.

       “Initially, my husband and I had dinner plans for Valentine’s Day but looking at the current situation, we decided to just have candlelight dinner at home,” said Dr Nur Insyirah Abdul Jalil, 31.

       “My husband and I love cooking, so we have decided to eat in and enjoy each other’s company while preparing dinner together.”

       Acknowledging concerns about the rising number of Covid-19 cases, the medical planning manager, however, is comforted by the fact that all her family members had already received their booster shots.

       The virus was also a spoiler for those intending to celebrate Chap Goh Meh, which falls on Feb 15.

       Also known as Chinese Valentine’s Day, it marks the end of the Lunar New Year celebration.

       Edith Goh, 30, said Chap Goh Meh would be a quiet affair for her as she had decided to stay at home instead of getting together with her friends.

       “Usually, I would hang out with friends over dinner for Chap Goh Meh. We would later throw oranges into the river as per the custom,” said the accountant.

       “But this year, I chose to stay at home instead of meeting up with friends due to concerns over Covid-19.”

       Malaysian Association of Hotels chief executive officer Yap Lip Seng said while dining trends were not adversely affected by the Omicron variant, the increasing number of daily infections has been a concern.

       “Hotels saw cancellations of gatherings of larger groups in general, both due to worries and positive cases found among the groups,” he said.

       He said hotels were taking extra measures to reassure potential guests on precautions taken to maintain hygiene and safety.

       “These include strict screening of employees and guests, as well as sanitisation before, during and after operations,” he said.

       Restaurant and Bistro Owners Association vice-president Jeremy Lim said there had been a decline in reservations and enquiries when the daily cases breached the 5,000-mark.

       Aside from the “Omicron fear”, he said there had been cancellations from those who had been identified as close contacts or persons under surveillance.

       “So far, Valentine’s Day seems promising but it’s really too early to tell,” he said.

       He said that many Chinese and seafood restaurants enjoyed good recovery in the weeks leading up to Lunar New Year but they had since noticed cancellations taking place.

       The food and beverage industry would have to “buckle up” for another roller-coaster ride, he said.

       “Despite the challenges, we must continue to do our part, be diligent and enforce the SOPs,” he added.

       Malaysia recorded 17,134 new infections yesterday.

       Daily cases have been increasing since Feb 3 when 5,720 cases were reported.