By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Jan 12: The state of emergency across the country which was proclaimed by the King today, is not a military coup and a curfew will not be enforced.
Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin gave assurance that the civilian government will continue to function throughout the emergency until Aug 1 or an earlier date if the number of daily Covid-19 cases can be brought under control and lowered effectively.
“In terms of governance, the Cabinet Minister and State Government Meeting Council will continue to function according to the Federal Constitution and any ordinance promulgated by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong from time to time.
“I assure you that the administrative and public service of the federal and state governments will not be disturbed by this declaration of emergency,” he said in his address to the nation which was broadcast earlier today.
During this emergency period, Muhyiddin emphasised, the executive authority of the federation shall extend to any matters within the state legislative authority except for any matters of Islamic law or Malay customary or on any matter of law or custom in Sabah or Sarawak, religion, citizenship and language, in accordance with Clause 6A of Article 150 of the Federal Constitution.
“In addition, the judiciary will continue to be the beacon of justice in our country and I will never interfere in the business of the court,” he added.
However, Muhyiddin gave stern warning that harsh actions will be taken against anyone who tries to disrupt the government’s efforts to manage and contain the Covid-19 pandemic as well as the country’s economy for the sake of the people’s welfare and national security.
He thus urged all Malaysians to remain calm and give their trust and support to the government to curb the spread of Covid-19 more effectively during the emergency period.
“I also call on all politicians, civil society leaders, non-governmental organisations, religious bodies, youth, students and people from all walks of life to unite and work together in facing this very difficult situation.
“More importantly, our only goal is that we must win in the fight against Covid-19.
“Let us practise self-discipline more strictly throughout this period of MCO (Movement Control Order) and emergency in force. Hopefully, we will be able to tackle the curve of Covid-19 infection immediately and further reduce the pressure on our country’s health system which is burdened with the increasing number of positive cases every day,” he emphasised. — DayakDaily
