Malaysia

‘Covid-19 doesn’t differentiate between political and social activities’

Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin rebuts ban on campaigning in Melaka when other events that attract crowds are permitted

Updated 5 years ago · Published on 12 Nov 2021 7:23PM

‘Covid-19 doesn’t differentiate between political and social activities’
Candidates should at least be allowed to meet constituents in an SOP-compliant manner, says Pagoh MP Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin. – ALIF OMAR/PETRA News pic, November 12, 2021

MELAKA – If social activities are allowed, why are political campaigns curtailed, asked Perikatan Nasional (PN) chairman Tan Sri Muhyiddin.

While he acknowledged the need for strict standard operating procedures (SOPs) to curb the spread of Covid-19, Muhyiddin pointed out that it is tough for candidates to introduce themselves to voters.

The Pagoh MP said candidates should at least be allowed to meet constituents, provided social distancing protocols are complied with.

“They allow social activities, but curb political activities.

“Covid-19 doesn’t differentiate between social activities and politics,” he said during a press conference at Kg Air Panas in Bemban here today.

In an attempt to achieve compromise, the former prime minister suggested that the Health Ministry allow relaxed SOPs for a few days to supervise the situation and form new protocols.

Although that may not be the government’s aim, Muhyiddin said democracy should not face obstacles to the point where it is diminished.

Muhyiddin also touched on reports concerning the closure of a PN election operation room, which he described as disappointing as it cannot be utilised for the time being.

However, Muhyiddin said, the decision to shutter the centre was a good one as it would allow for the premises to be sanitised.

Following the closure of the premises, Muhyiddin said the coalition will find a temporary replacement for its election operation centre. – The Vibes, November 12, 2021

Related News

Malaysia / 16h

Melaka PRN: Defeat leaves Bersama, Bersatu searching for political relevance

Malaysia / 4d

Azmin does not rule out last-minute understanding with PH in Melaka polls

Malaysia / 1w

PH-Bersatu rivalry puts political understanding to test in Melaka polls

Malaysia / 1w

PH must revitalise human resources, management to stand out - PKR deputy secgen

Malaysia / 2w

Anwar cementing full term for the Madani government

Malaysia / 2w

CSA remains open to opposition MPs – Fahmi

Spotlight

Malaysia

Seven national laureates urge equal justice, say no one should be above the law

By Alfian Z.M. Tahir

Malaysia

Ivana Smit's family ends legal battle over alleged police negligence

Malaysia

Melaka election: Ab Rauf, Adam Adli, Akmal Salleh among leaders casting ballots

Malaysia

Son arrested after mother found strangled at Banting home

Malaysia

Melaka election: Police record 34 reports, open 25 investigation papers

Malaysia

Selective outrage over corruption puts political, religious principles under scrutiny

Malaysia

Police officer who was attacked can move some of his fingers – Fahmi

Malaysia

1MDB allowed to admit affidavit of Rosmah’s shopping partner in its case

You may be interested

Malaysia

Anwar rejects pressure for Malay dominance, calls for justice for all Malaysians

Malaysia

Ismail withdraws objection to Tuanku Muhriz, reaffirms support for ruler

By Alfian Z.M. Tahir

Malaysia

Malaysia faces thousands of cyberattack attempts monthly - Anwar

Malaysia

Melaka PRN: Turnout reaches 34.28% by 11.30am as voters decide fate of 28 seats

Malaysia

Malaysia in Macron's sights as France seeks to cut reliance on rare earth supplies

Malaysia

Students to gain greater freedom to criticise government under proposed AUKU changes

Malaysia

Son arrested after mother found strangled at Banting home

Malaysia

Police officer who was attacked can move some of his fingers – Fahmi