WITH the Government imposing a nationwide movement control order (MCO), former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak queried on why factories and construction sectors are allowed to open despite contributing to more than 60% of Malaysia’s COVID-19 clusters.
“Factories and construction sectors are allowed to operate during MCO 2.0 and MCO 3.0. How are we then to flatten the COVID-19 curve?” he asked, in a Facebook post.
Yesterday, Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin announced a nationwide MCO, starting from May 12 until June 7. However, all economic sectors will be allowed to operate as usual, under strict standard operating procedure (SOP).
Earlier today, several business groups have urged the Government to suspend further information derived from the Hotspot Identification by Dynamic Engagement (HIDE), claiming it was unfair and misleading.
The system, developed to identify potential hotspots, was claimed to be inaccurate as it only targetted shopping malls and retail outlets, instead of factories and construction sites where most COVID-19 clusters are concentrated.
On that note, Najib alleged that factories and construction companies owned by tycoons were not shut down but small traders were ordered to close from Jan 11 to March 4.
He added that the tourism sector, which employs millions, is nearly paralysed since Jan 11 due to movement restrictions.
“School bus drivers are affected due school closures and the entertainment centres are still closed since Jan 11.
“Other sectors are opening and closing, from time to time. People don’t really go out much as infection cases are alarming.
“My question is, are powerful tycoons the only ones who need to earn a living? What about small traders and average Joe?” the Pekan MP asked. – May 11, 2021.
