GEORGE TOWN: Penangites have been urged to refrain from any celebrations tonight as a mark of respect for the flood victims in Selangor.

       Penang police chief Comm Datuk Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain said the police have turned down applications for New Year countdown and fireworks display in welcoming 2022.

       "We are actually in a mourning period, if I may use the word, due to the floods although I understand that after over a year of not celebrating during New Year’s Eve, people would want to spend time revelling with their friends.

       "However, the Prime Minister has made it clear that all celebrations are cancelled and would be replaced with prayers and thanksgiving. We should respect the call," said Comm Mohd Shuhaily when briefing police officers on Ops Ambang Tahun Baru 2022 at the police contingent headquarters on Friday (Dec 31).

       The state top cop also said police would be in full force tonight to ensure public safety and Covid-19 SOP compliance.

       "The public can report or take snap shots of any countdown celebrations or fireworks display.

       "We will take action against individuals or premises involved in the celebrations," he said.

       A total of 146 officers and 821 personnel from the state police contingent will be deployed to the ground as the island is expected to have an increase of 40% in vehicles today and during the weekend.