LET’S get this straight: yes, the government needs to buck up to stop the rise in Covid-19 cases, but no, it doesn’t need to declare an emergency to do its job right, for once.
The combined movement control order and emergency proclamation is to extend Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin’s political life, given that he has lost his majority in Parliament, and more Umno lawmakers are considering withdrawing their support for him.
Isn’t this rather telling: the executive functions together with the judiciary, but the legislature is technically suspended till further notice?
The role of Parliament is critical at this time in order to ensure transparency, human rights and democracy in the affairs of the state.
This is a clever way for the executive to bypass all forms of accountability and good governance practices.
We are not an island. The world is watching. European Union-Malaysia Chamber of Commerce and Industry CEO Sven Schneider has said there are many concerns about Malaysia as a viable investment destination.
He also said “a few nice words and window-dressing” don’t make the mark.
The international business chamber chief earlier warned that a total lockdown could cause the country’s economy to collapse.
It’s therefore ironic that Muhyiddin is using the emergency to justify regenerating the economy.
Contrary to what he said, job and business losses will increase, and this might lead the country further into poverty and hopelessness.
I listened to Muhyiddin’s remarks about empowering the military, police and Immigration Department to detain “Pati”, which loosely translates to those who enter the country illegally.
I can only hope that this won’t translate into a witch-hunt against undocumented workers and refugees.
In fact, I hope Muhyiddin will make that clear, because ensuring the safety and protection of migrants, refugees and stateless persons in the country is key to overcoming rising Covid-19 infections.
In short, initiatives by the government must be focused on combating the rising number of cases, looking at durable ways to support the people and businesses, preventing job losses, looking into mental health provisions, preventing suicides and an increase in domestic violence, protecting vulnerable communities, ensuring food aid reaches the targeted communities, including refugees and migrants, looking into increased support for women-led households, and enhancing support for our frontliners.
It cannot be about Muhyiddin using state powers to secure his position. – The Vibes, January 12, 2021
Charles Santiago is Klang MP
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