KOTA KINABALU – The Sabah government should not make life any more difficult for those living under the enhanced movement control order (EMCO) and ensure no delay in distributing food aid, said Warisan leader Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal.
He said the state government has been urged to act urgently in ensuring that the people in the EMCO areas get the necessary food aid without delay.
“These residents have been facing hardships for more than a year due to the coronavirus pandemic and should not be further burdened with restrictions,” Shafie said in a statement here today.
“The GRS government keeps announcing food baskets are being prepared and millions of ringgit allocated for food aid – but on the ground, the people are complaining they have not seen even a grain of rice.”
The authorities can extend opening hours for food outlets or takeaways – but as long as the people are barred from getting access to shops and food, then it is as good as starving them.
“We cannot avoid enforcing the EMCO, but the people in the affected areas must get food. The state government must show compassion. This is the fasting month,” he said.
Shafie said the peaceful demonstration in Kg Muhibbah Raya in Tawau recently is a clear signal that the people are angry and frustrated.
They don’t get food aid but at the same time they cannot go out to get food.
“I’ve also heard complaints that opposition areas are deprived of food aid. This should not happen as government funds are involved and should be distributed fairly.”
“As a government you should not be so heartless. Don’t they care about the people? Stop playing politics and do what you are supposed to do as the government of the day.” – The Vibes, April 27, 2021
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