KUALA LUMPUR – Senior Minister (Security) Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob says the RM50,000 compound that was issued to a burger seller in Kelantan for operating past the permitted hours under the movement control order (MCO) is unjustified.
The senior minister said the current ordinance prescribes that the maximum RM50,000 fine permitted under the Prevention and Control of Infectious Disease Act 1988 (Act 342) is for companies.
“Personally, although the matter is out of my control, I feel this shouldn’t have happened. The punishment is excessive,” he said in a press conference here today.
Ismail Sabri said he was unable to comment further as the issuance of the compound comes under the police, while appeals have to be made to the Health Ministry.
Wan Mohd Faisal Wan Kadir, 38, who operates a stall in front of his house at Kg Rambutan Rendang, Kota Baru, was recently fined RM50,000 for operating past 10pm.
His story quickly made rounds on social media, with many slamming the police for not using discretion in issuing the compound.
He said the offence falls under Category 3 of the government’s Guideline for Determining the Value of Compounds and Compound Reduction Rates, which is to be used by the authorities in enforcing the standard operating procedures (SOPs).
On parents’ worry that there is no one to look after their children once the two-week home-based learning is enforced after the Hari Raya Aidilfitri holidays, Ismail Sabri said the matter will be deliberated by the respective quarters.
He said he understood the concerns raised by parents, especially after the government allowed all sectors to operate at full capacity, meaning they have to be present at work physically.
“I believe the relevant ministries will discuss ways to reduce the burden on parents who have to work while their children are at home.”
Ismail Sabri said once a decision is made, the Public Service Department will make an announcement for the civil service, while the International Trade and Industry Ministry will announce for the private sector.
Education Minister Datuk Mohd Radzi Md Jidin had announced yesterday that all schools will conduct online classes after the Hari Raya break on March 7-15 (Category One schools) and March 8-16 (Category Two schools).
The home-based learning will be held from May 16-27 and May 17-28 respectively for the two categories, following which the students will continue their term holidays for another two weeks. – The Vibes, April 27, 2021
