GEORGE TOWN – The government has lost its grip on the fight against Covid-19, says Seri Delima rep Syerleena Abdul Rashid.
The Penang assemblyman said contradictory decisions like reopening economic sectors despite extending the movement control order (MCO) till February 19 were unhelpful.
Syerleena said that because of this the government was facing a public trust deficit and dwindling investor confidence.
She said people were also confused by the spike in virus cases and fatalities, despite generally high public compliance to standard operating procedures (SOPs).
“The policies are against each other. There is yes now and no, the next day.
“I think this happens when there is an unelected government,” she said.
She also said Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Adham Baba should consider quitting, with his predecessor Datuk Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad reinstated as the latter was more capable of handling the crisis.
Syerleena however agreed that the country could not afford a total lockdown, but there was a need to introduce better and more effective measures.
Meantime, Langkawi Business Association deputy president Datuk Alexander Isaac said that the MCO extension would throw the travel sector into even deeper trouble, as he urged Putrajaya to help the hard-hit sector.
“It is a nightmare. We support the extension but the government also needs to address the financial aspects of our trade.
“Banks need to be humane more than ever," he said.
He also said the Finance Ministry should implement measures to help rebuild the travel industry, saying that utilities giants should be asked to absorb temporary losses.
He was referring to utility companies that have issued letters of demand and legal notices to businesses which are struggling amid an ailing economy.
Banks, meanwhile, should grant an automatic loan moratorium for at least six months, allowing businesses time to recoup their losses and stabilise their financial standing.
“Most of us are small and medium enterprises which have been faithful customers for ages.
“It’s time we are all (made) partners in rebuilding the economy, not acting like money lenders.
“Our aim is to rebuild and revitalise and yes, we will pay, but now is the time to assist.” – The Vibes, February 3, 2021
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