KUALA LUMPUR – The movement control order will not be reintroduced for now, said Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, as it will be detrimental to an economy already battered by the coronavirus pandemic.
The prime minister, however, intimated that the government will enforce in a tough manner – by wielding a “cane” – the necessary measures to curb the spread of Covid-19.
Speaking colloquially in Malay, he referred to himself as “Abah” (father), who might have to use the “rotan” (cane) if need be.
"Forgive Abah if I have to start using the cane. Let us face the battle against Covid-19 together,” he said in a live address to the nation this evening.
He said economic and social activities can continue, provided that people strictly heed health and safety standard operating procedures.
“What has been done by the government is to impose the targeted enhanced movement control order in places with a high number of Covid-19 cases.
“For now, the economic recovery process is running smoothly. Whatever it is, we have to take into account the 15 million Malaysians who go out to work, to earn a living.”
Muhyiddin said he fully trusts that the nation’s frontliners and healthcare system are able to handle the virus crisis.
“I guarantee that contact tracing is easier now than before as some 17 million Malaysians are using the MySejahtera app.”
He said he was assured by Health Director-General Tan Sri Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah that there are enough personal protective equipment, ventilators and beds to cope with the coronavirus situation.
“There are enough hospital beds (for Covid-19 patients), as usage currently stands at 29%. We are now better prepared in terms of experience and manpower.”
Today, Malaysia recorded 691 new infections – its highest-ever daily count – and four deaths.
The fresh cases take the national tally to 13,504. – The Vibes, October 6, 2020
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