LARUT – Home Minister Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin has hit out at parties who are willing to hold a mass gathering and violate standard operating procedures (SOPs) when Malaysia is struggling with the spread of the Delta variant.
His comment comes on the heels of the #Lawan protest held near Dataran Merdeka in Kuala Lumpur this morning.
Hamzah said police will be looking at all angles of failure to comply with SOPs, and if proven, action will be taken.
“This is the time for us to comply with SOPs. The people should understand that we only allow essential services.
“Gathering and carrying out a demonstration is an offence. This is occurring when the country is under an emergency.
“Netizens are angry when the manufacturing sector is allowed to operate, but call on the people to gather. I think they have double standards.”
He said the presence of politicians at the protest made matters worse, and tarnishes the image of the country, which is combating Covid-19.
“I would not call them leaders, but inciters.”
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob also expressed concern that the protest may cause further spread of the virus.
“I am worried about their (participants) safety when they gather in such a large number. Even if one of them catches the infection on the street, it will be brought home.
“Maybe Covid-19 cases will spread further as a result of the rally.”
He said gatherings are not allowed during the pandemic, and deemed an offence under the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988 (Act 342).
Echoing the sentiments of both ministers, medical experts said organising and partaking in a protest when the country is struggling with the Covid-19 pandemic will worsen the health crisis.
Malaysian Public Health Physicians’ Association president Datuk Dr Zainal Ariffin Omar said this is especially so when the Klang Valley is a hotspot for the spread of new cases.
“In a demonstration situation, it is difficult for them (participants) to practise physical distancing and wear face masks at all times, and there is the possibility that they will share drink containers and others.
“With new Covid-19 variants such as Delta, which is highly contagious, and a mass gathering... there may be the possibility of new transmissions.
“Taking this into account, I think it is logical for the authorities to not allow any mass gathering. Those involved should still be able to voice their opinion via other platforms that are more appropriate, including social media.”
Johor Malaysian Medical Association vice-chairman Dr Ng Kim Fong said he will not be surprised if new Covid-19 cases exceed the Health Ministry’s initial forecast of 24,000 cases a day in September.
“Certainly, the number will be higher again, and this will make for a longer lockdown period for Malaysians. Thus... the people must look at the health angle in every action.
“Help doctors and health workers control the Covid-19 situation, as most of the beds in Klang Valley hospitals are full, indicating that the situation is worsening,” said Ng, who is temporarily assigned to Serdang Hospital. – Bernama, July 31, 2021
