KUCHING, March 17: Deputy Chief Minister Tan Sri Dr James Jemut Masing asserts that the public must fully cooperate with the restricted movement order to yield the desired effect.
He pointed out that if some groups refuse to care and not follow the restricted movement order, the federal government’s effort may be in vain.
“The restricted movement order from Mar 18 to 31, 2020 is a move, i think, to monitor where Malaysia stands in trying to contain the spread of Covid-19.
“At the same time, we must treat those who are tested positive of coronavirus (Covid-19). If (the number of) those affected by Covid-19 plateaus within two weeks and those tested positive can be treated, then the effort to contain this virus works.
“However, we need to monitor vigilantly that Malaysians don’t break the instructions put forward by the government. This is where the challenge lies,” according to Masing who is also Parti Rakyat Sarawak president.
Citing Italy which in total lockdown, he noted there were still groups of people who defied the order and held parties to entertain themselves.
“When they behave like that, it is hard for the government to trace the cases as there will be old cases and new cases.
“If they behave, the government can within the two weeks, quite effectively, stop the disease from spreading by tracing down all the cases and preventing new ones from cropping up through prohibition of mass gatherings or personal contact at social meetings.”
He thus called for action to be taken against those who go against the order.
Meanwhile, Masing who is also Infrastructure and Port Development Minister also appealed to netizens not to be recalcitrant in spreading fake news.
Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin during a special address yesterday evening, announced that the federal government will be implementing restricted movement order from March 18 to 31.
“This includes the general prohibition of mass movements and gatherings across the country including religious, sports, social and cultural activities.
“To enforce this prohibition, all houses of worship and business premises must be closed except for supermarkets, public markets, convenience stores and convenience stores selling everyday necessities,” said Muhyiddin. — DayakDaily
