Putrajaya dismisses calls to reduce RM1,000 fine for not wearing masks

Noel Achariam Noel Achariam Updated 5 years ago · Published on 18 Aug 2020 3:24PM · 3 Comments

The government will not lower the RM1,000 fine for not wearing masks as there are already many flouting the law at its current rate. – The Malaysian Insight pic by Nazir Sufari, August 18, 2020.

PUTRAJAYA will not reduce the RM1,000 compound for those caught not wearing masks in public crowded places, said senior minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

The purpose for the RM1,000 fine is to protect the health of the individual and those around them, he told a press conference today.

“It is not our intention to burden them. Even with the RM1,000 compound, many are still flouting the law. 

“Just imagine if there is no compound or if we reduce the fine. Then more people might break the law.”

Ismail Sabri, who is also defence minister, was responding to calls by opposition MPs to reduce the fine on grounds that it was a burden to those in lower-income groups as well as students.

Using a mask in public became mandatory on August 1. The government defined “public” as all forms of public transportation and in “crowded places”.

Ismail, however, said that people can appeal for the RM1,000 fine to be reduced. 

“The people have the right to appeal, but it’s up to the Health Ministry. 

“If they are taken to court, they also have the right to appeal for reduced costs.”

He added that the government will not compromise on any individual that fails to follow the government’s SOP. – August 18, 2020.

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Comments

  • No need to reduce but need crystal clear laws as to when & where to wear, consistency in implementation AND ESPECIALLY NO little napoleans abusing power to take advantage.

    Posted 5 years ago by A Subscriber · Reply

  • It is the double standards in implementation that are the problem.
    The rich and the powerful get off scot free, or with a small fine, like Zahid Hamidi's daughter, and various PN politicians.
    To date, there have been no fines imposed on the PN organised rally in support of Najib on the day of his verdict and sentencing. How so?
    In contrast, the poor and downtrodden seem to be inflicted with the maximum fine, with no clemency given.

    Posted 5 years ago by Arul Inthirarajah · Reply

  • If only you can apply the law fairly and squarely especially on politicians - who are supposed to set as example for rakyat.

    Remember Zahid's daughter was given 20% discount (when she can afford to pay in full) ?

    Posted 5 years ago by Tavern Folks · Reply