By Pappa Raidu Veraman
MALAYSIANS and the entire world were shocked after the announcement of the movement control order (MCO 2.0) which was followed by a nationwide state of emergency proclaimed by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah ibni Almarhum Sultan Ahmad Shah that will be enforced until Aug 1.
Even though most Malaysians opined that the Emergency declaration is to save Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin’s Government at the federal level, but as a non-governmental organisation (NGO), we are not going to be bothered by that.
What is more important is, we want and wish the ruling Government can facilitate a fair distribution of help, services and food to the needy.
As we are all aware, the previous MCO (March 2020) has created a major destruction to our lives with a huge number of people still suffering till now.
Also, many have lost their jobs and source of income.
Thus, there’s a need for the Government to come up with ways or programmes to help those who are not only affected by the pandemic, but also those in rural areas who are in need of assistance but are often being left out.
Below are some of my proposals:
- Offer loan moratorium to all those who are affected until the end of this year as the Emergency declaration been scheduled until Aug 1. The people need two to three months to recover their financial condition.
- Provide financial aid to those in need even those with no political background.
- Instead of imposing a fine to those who failed to follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) during this period, create awareness among them about the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Be transparent in jurisdictional review for all the enormous corruption cases during this Emergency period to prove that no government servants are involved in those cases.
- There’s a need to set up a special committee or task force to look into informal sector for the well-being and the needs of its workers as well as their families need (this special team must include and be led by NGOs).
- This special team should also visit remote areas to observe the living conditions and situation of the needy instead of only visiting them during election period to win their votes.
Now it’s time for the PM to show his real compassion and humanity towards citizens of this country. Remember, they are not demanding for a bungalow or BMW.
All they are asking for is the very basic things in life to help them sail through this trying time so they can continue to live their life.
Stay together, Stay safe. – Jan 15, 2021
Pappa Raidu Veraman is the founder of NGO, the Malaysian Indian Voice.
The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Focus Malaysia.
