Fine, jail term for MCO flouters may be increased: Ismail Sabri

KUALA LUMPUR – Those found violating standard operating procedures (SOPs) during the movement control order (MCO) may soon be looking at a much heftier compound compared with the current maximum of RM1,000. 

Senior Minister (Security) Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said many individuals and businesses are still continuing to flout SOPs as the punishment permitted under the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988 (Act 342) is too low. 

He said that as such, the government is asking the Attorney-General’s Chambers (AGC) to review the matter. 

Ismail said the government will use its powers accorded under the emergency to formulate an ordinance to increase the punishment. 

“Many Malaysians feel the RM1,000 compound is too low, especially for businesses. If we look at offenders, like operators of night clubs and entertainment centres, to them, RM1,000 is very little,” he said. 

“Even previously, when we issued a compound of a similar amount to a company that breached the SOP, leading to infections among its factory workers, many were angry that the fine was not enough. But that’s the law we have.  

“However, under the emergency, we can make some amendments. So, we have asked the AGC to look into this. 

“We will increase the maximum compound for individuals – and for companies – maybe even up to RM100,000, and, perhaps, increase the prison term,” he said in a media briefing that was also telecast live today. 

Asked for clarification, Ismail said the government’s biggest concerns are on businesses that continue to disregard the SOPs. 

Other than entertainment centres, the minister also cited employers of foreign workers who refuse to send their employees for Covid-19 screening, despite this being made mandatory. 

“There are also employers who do not follow the stipulated guideline in providing accommodation for their staff. Under existing law, it will take some time for action to be taken on them. But with this ordinance, we can act faster. 

“I was also told by an enforcement officer that night clubs, for example, have already set aside RM1,000 for the compound. It’s like there is no issue for them,” he said. 

On a viral video of a police officer supposedly issuing a compound to a shop worker for failing to wear gloves, Ismail said he has clarified the matter with Bukit Aman and was told there was a misunderstanding. 

He stressed that, under existing SOPs, the wearing of gloves is not required among both consumers and workers. – The Vibes, January 21, 2021