Minister appeals to Kelantanese to abide by MCO

CORONAVIRUS | Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Takiyuddin Hassan has called on Malaysians, especially Kelantanese, to abide by the movement control order, the duration of which has now been extended to April 14.

Takiyuddin (above) said the people’s cooperation is needed to ensure the efforts being taken by the authorities to slow the spread of Covid-19 are not wasted.

He said this in reference to an article in Malaysiakini yesterday in which many Kelantanese were still found to be leaving their homes despite the MCO.

Kelantan police have admitted they are disappointed with the level of compliance by residents there and said they will take a more stringent approach in enforcing the partial shutdown order by the federal government.

“Referring to the article, I appeal to Malaysians and especially the Kelantan people to continue to adhere to the MCO which has been extended.

“Cooperation with authorities enforcing the law, especially the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988 (Act 342), such as medical officers, police and military, is important in ensuring steps taken by the government for the sake of protecting people’s lives are not (done) in vain,” the Kota Bharu MP told Malaysiakini.

In yesterday’s article, among the reasons given to Malaysiakini by people found out of their homes were the need to go to market, withdraw money from the bank and to pay utilities. The recent receipt of salaries compounded the matter, leading to many to exit their homes to purchase essential goods, it was found.

The PAS secretary-general, who is also de facto law minister, today cautioned that appointed authorities are permitted to use any means necessary by law to enforce the MCO.

“Aside from making arrests, they can charge (those found breaking the law) in court which can lead to a jail term or fine,” he said.

“I hope our patience in weathering this storm and challenging time can save the lives of all Malaysians from the coronavirus outbreak.” - Mkini