IPOH: Theme parks should be allowed to re-open with the approval of the National Security Council (NSC), says Datuk Seri Dr Edmund Santhara Kumar.

       The Deputy Tourism, Arts, Culture Minister said a standard operating procedure (SOP) must be drawn to ensure the safety of visitors.

       "Theme parks are a family-based entertainment that should be allowed to open.

       "Since it is a controlled environment, it would be easier to monitor and maintain the SOP," he told reporters after visiting the Lost World of Tambun here on Sunday (Sept 26).

       Along with Kelantan, Penang, Selangor, Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya and Johor, Perak is under Phase Two of the National Recovery Plan (NRP).

       On Aug 15, Mentri Besar Datuk Saarani Mohamad said Perak is on its course to move to Phase Three as about 35% of the state’s eligible population had completed their vaccination.

       Separately, Edmund said tourism operators in Perak are ready to open for business.

       "Based on my visits to Ipoh's tourist hotspots including museums in Ipoh Old Town and Gunung Lang, we can see that these operators are ready to welcome visitors once they are allowed to open," he said.