This evening, I was invited by Informa Markets for a special session with the business community and embassy representatives to give clarity on the Covid-19 situation in Malaysia.
About 200 leaders and representatives from various business sectors were in attendance, which among others, include exporters and manufacturers of furniture and interiors, building and construction, water and wastewater, and commercial security.
It is crucial that during times of crisis and uncertainty, we seek the truth and facts from valid and authorised sources. Each and every one of us must be responsible when sharing information.
If the source and validity is dubious, it is better for us not to share.
Up to date information on the Covid-19 situation in Malaysia is readily available on the Ministry of Health’s (MOH) official social media channels.
Based on MOH’s most current assessment, the situation of COVID-19 infection is under control and in the early containment phase. MOH will continue to strengthen preparedness for the possibility of the next phase i.e. late containment and subsequently, the mitigation phase.
The Covid-19 infection in Malaysia is currently being managed by MOH, the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA), together with various other ministries and agencies, in a committee chaired by the Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Dr Wan Ismail.
Malaysia continues to receive strong commitment from various stakeholders, both from the public and private sectors, as well as civil society (including non-governmental organisations) in the prevention and control of Covid-19 infection in the country.
Malaysia will also continue to strengthen multilateral cooperation between ASEAN Member States as well as globally, to ensure that the spread of infection is managed in a collaborative manner, particularly in the prevention and management of cross-border infections.
I quote once again the Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO): “This is the time for facts, not fear. This is the time for science, not rumours. This is the time for solidarity, not stigma.”
Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah is Health director-general of Malaysia.
