CORONAVIRUS | Former education minister Mahdzir Khalid believes the government should extend the movement control order (MCO), stressing that the public's health is precious.
His assessment was based on the daily briefings by Defence Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob and Health Ministry director-general Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah on the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Umno leader proposed several initiatives which could be implemented if Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin, who is scheduled to address the nation at 4pm, announces an extension for the MCO.
As for education with regard to the primary and secondary levels, Mahdzir said the Education Ministry must encourage more online learning.
“Using an interactive platform can motivate teachers and students to continue the syllabus. This would also prevent students from becoming dull after sitting at home for a long period of time.
“The education slot on RTM can also be extended and this can also include private networks,” he added in a Facebook posting this morning.
Whereas, Mahdzir said the Higher Education Ministry should urge universities to conduct online lectures in order for courses to be completed according to schedule.
“The advantage of students owning smartphones coupled with the initiative by telecommunication companies offering free internet data can help realise this proposal,” he added.
Who knows, we may find the vaccine?
Research universities, the former minister said, can use this opportunity to strengthen the research and development (R&D) sector.
Mahdzir urged these universities to conduct research into the Covid-19 virus to understand its characteristics and the findings can be shared with the public for their well-being.
“The R&D group can also look for a vaccine. Who knows, the vaccine for Covid-19 could come from our laboratories?
“To realise this, the government must provide the appropriate research grants to these universities to produce impactful studies,” he added.
Mahdzir also urged the government to launch a specific initiative for SME entrepreneurs, which would allow for their businesses, including those in rural areas, to operate during the MCO.
“How long can the government afford to dish out aid in the form of cash?
“The online business platform must be expanded for their use. Or in other words, the implementation of the 5G network must be expedited,” he added.
As for life in the post-MCO period, the former minister suggested that social science experts conduct a specific study to identify the new norms to be observed.
“The public can use the findings of this study to adapt to the situation after the government lifts the MCO. It would also be crucial for the public to help rehabilitate the national economy,” he added.
The MCO was implemented on March 18 to flatten the Covid-19 infection curve. It was scheduled to end on March 31 but was extended until April 14.
As of yesterday, Malaysia recorded 4,228 Covid-19 cases and 67 deaths. A total of 24 districts nationwide have been classified as red zones for having more than 40 positive cases. - Mkini
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