Muhyiddin: I support raising RM1k compound by ‘at least two or three times’

Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin has expressed support for raising the compound issued to those who breach Covid-19 rules by “at least two or three times” from the present RM1,000.

In a speech telecast live tonight, he said the law would need to be amended before the penalty could be increased.

“No one is exempt from the rules and any individual who breaches them will be subject to the appropriate punishment.

“Thus, I support the Health Ministry’s suggestion to raise the compound amount for related offences by at least two or three times from the present amount.

“However, this matter needs to be refined and the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988 will need to be amended first,” he added.

Health director-general Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah previously mooted raising the fine amount to RM10,000.

Govt trying to reduce mask price

Muhyiddin also shared that the government was working to bring down the price of face masks.

 Wearing face masks has been made mandatory in many public places since Aug 1.

“In view of how face masks are now a necessity that we use at all times, the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry has been holding discussions with manufacturers and suppliers to bring down the price of face masks.

“God willing, if the discussions are successful, the price of face masks will be more affordable and this will ease a few your burdens,” he said.

Earlier this month, the retail ceiling price for three-ply surgical face masks was brought down from RM1.50 to RM1.00 per mask.

A full list of places where wearing a face mask is required is available here. - Mkini