The Malaysian Health Coalition (MHC) has called for Malaysians to continue to be vigilant, even as the country moves into the recovery phase of the movement control order (RMCO).
“The gradual reopening of public life in Malaysia must rely on appropriate guidance from all areas of government and the Ministry of Health. We must remain vigilant until a vaccine for Covid-19 is available,” said the coalition.
For that, MHC brought four particular points to attention, with the first being the education sector requiring standard operating procedures that are “comprehensive, non-discriminatory, and include clear implementation guidelines,” as the government begins a phased restart of childcare centres and schools.
“The government must provide teachers and administrators with all the necessary tools, training, resources, and physical space required to execute the recommended precautions before schools reopen,” it said.
MHC also called for the prompt improvement of migrant worker housing to prevent the further spread of Covid-19 in the community, reiterating its stance on the matter. The coalition noted that this included improved conditions in detention centres and the enactment of a long-term workforce policy, which must also be addressed.
With the restrictions on interstate travel and domestic tourism lifted, the coalition urged Malaysians to remain vigilant against Covid-19 and not to take the recovery phase for granted.
“While we understand the need to restart tourism as it is an important economic sector for the country, the government and private sector stakeholders must work together to enforce physical distancing measures in all public areas, including in airports, hotels, highway rest areas and on public transportation,” said the coalition.
Lastly, MHC also reiterated its stance on the strengthening of health systems in Malaysia, noting that those systems “must be prepared to continue providing Covid-19 care while balancing non-Covid-19 care until a vaccine is available.”
“We must protect and appropriately recognise all healthcare professionals. This includes providing rest time, fair remuneration and permanent posts. The resupply of our health system’s equipment must also be conducted,” it said. – June 10, 2020
