KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian Health Coalition has called on the government to revoke the order allowing a shorter quarantine period for cabinet members.
In a statement titled “No Double Standards for SOPs”, the coalition said it is disappointed by the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases (Exemption) Order 2021, which takes effect today.
The order, announced by Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Adham Baba yesterday, relaxes rules for ministers to undergo only a three-day quarantine, instead of the usual 10, after returning from abroad.
“The justification provided by the health minister does not sufficiently explain the rationale, science, evidence or facts behind this decision,” the coalition said.
“Therefore, we can only take it at face value, and we oppose this order in the strongest possible way.”
It said the order “institutionalises double standards” that undermine the national effort to curb Covid-19.
“Double standards not based on evidence or science will erode public trust in the standard operating procedures.
“They will worsen the trust deficit between the people and politicians.”
Last month, the quarantine period for Malaysians returning from abroad was shortened from 14 days to 10 days.
The coalition said medical experts could not fight Covid-19 without public trust and confidence in the health system.
“We urge that this exemption order be immediately revoked.” – The Vibes, February 9, 2021
