They have formed a movement called the #whiteflagphotovideomua, initiated by photographer Lau Yon Hau, calling on the government to allow the reopening of the creative industry.
They say it is unfair for the government to continue disallowing their industry from operating when other sectors such as manufacturing, which have higher risks of virus outbreaks, are allowed to run, and at 80% capacity at that.
Lau, 31, whose own studio is at risk of closing after opening just two years ago, said they had been unable to earn a decent living from their profession due to the stop-start nature of movement control orders since last March.
“I have not had any business for two months now. I am running out of cash and struggling to survive,” he told FMT.
“Some have abandoned the industry and changed career paths, working as e-hailing riders or drivers, opening up food stalls or working with contractors.”
Sabah came under Phase 2 of the national recovery plan from July 10.
According to the SOPs in Phase 2, photography and other creative industry activities in the state are not allowed to operate, except for interview programmes and individual live streamings.
Lau, who has been doing photography for 10 years, asked: “Does it mean that the number of infections must drop first before we can start work?”
He said the risk of infection in photography could be managed with the right SOPs in place.
“For instance, the distance standard for taking photos is maintained at 2 to 3 metres, and the number of people taking pictures is kept to a minimum.
“Just like dining-in now, allow us to operate, starting with a minimal level, just enough to have some business so that we can cover our daily expenses and rental payments,” he said.
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