Coronavirus: some patrons of Hong Kong bars adopt happy-go-lucky attitude in response to new rapid testing rule
- Patrons at five bars on Lockhart Road in Wan Chai observed entering premises without providing proof of negative rapid Covid test results
- But industry employee says several customers came ready with proof in hand; dealing with younger crowd on Friday, Saturday could be ‘more problematic’
Some patrons of Hong Kong’s best-known nightlife districts have been ignoring a new rapid Covid-19 test requirement for entry to premises, while the city recorded more than 1,000 cases for the second day in a row.
A visit by the Post to Lockhart Road in Wan Chai found several customers did not show negative rapid antigen test (RAT) results to staff in at least five venues, as required under the new rule that took effect from 5am on Thursday. Employees at each venue were not seen asking patrons to comply with the measure.
Three of the five premises were bars, while the other two were restaurants with bar areas. While eateries can admit customers who are not using such areas without requiring a negative RAT result, patrons were seen sitting at bar sections without providing the necessary proof.
Under the new requirement, announced on Tuesday, patrons must present proof of a negative RAT result obtained within 24 hours before entering any bars, pubs or clubs. The measure is expected to continue until June 29.
Customers must write their names, and the date and time of the test on the kit before taking a photo of the result with their phone.
Customers who fail to comply with the rule may get a fixed-penalty notice while operators who are found to not have checked patrons’ test results will be suspended for 14 days. Customers and staff who provide false information face a HK$5,000 (US$636) fixed penalty.
