The Malaysian Health Coalition (MHC) is concerned by the steady increase in number of Covid-19 cases in Malaysia. It is everyone’s responsibility to strictly comply with the standard operating procedures (SOP) and recommendations by the Ministry of Health.
To reduce the risk of spread, we urge the following:
Proportional enforcement for mandatory masking
We reiterate our support of mandatory masking beginning 1 August 2020 (as mentioned in our earlier statement on 22 July 2020). However, enforcement must be proportional to the problem, with sufficient education on proper mask wearing before administering fines.
There must be durable solutions for households that cannot afford to regularly purchase disposable masks, including sustainable waste disposal solutions. We suggest looking to examples in Singapore and Hong Kong where households were provided with reusable masks.
Politicians to lead by example by avoiding mass gatherings
We urge all political leaders to demonstrate good leadership by avoiding mass gatherings. While we understand that some events and meetings are crucial to run our country, politicians must act responsibly in their daily actions.
We are disappointed with recent mass gatherings during a court hearing, in blatant violation of SOPs. Especially as we approach Hari Raya Haji, we must continue taking all necessary precautions, such as physical distancing, avoiding mass gatherings and shaking hands or salam, and maintaining good hand hygiene.
Compliance to health is everyone’s business
Covid-19 will not end until a vaccine is found. Therefore, we reiterate our statement on 22 July 2020 in reminding everyone that the rakyat are the frontliners now. Our sacrifices since March 2020 will be in vain if everyone does not do their part in preventing a second wave.
It is the rakyat’s collective responsibility to comply with the recommended SOPs and precautions, for the foreseeable future.
We are troubled by the lackadaisical attitude shown by some Malaysians, including our leaders. We urge all leaders and all Malaysians to remain compliant. Beating Covid-19 is a marathon, not a sprint.
- This is the personal opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of CodeBlue.
