DISEASE, like in war time, does not discriminate in its victims, with the collateral damage it causes to every piece of fabric in society.

In war, death and casualties are consequences of great magnitude. In more ways than one, these calamities unite people in managing the destructive consequences that go with it. It affects everyone, regardless of race, colour, creed or religion.

It will be of grave consequence if people think otherwise.

The global pandemic now, with the spread of the coronavirus that is encircling the globe, like war, is another reminder of how fragile the human species is, especially during moments of truth.

It takes great courage and sacrifice to do ones duty in such situations. Our medical faternity has been unwavering in their courageous quest, fighting for all of us.

Malaysians now in a lockdown under a movement control order (MCO) are finding it hard to comply as we have become complacent with personal wants and needs, coupled with the comforts of life.

We have become unprepared to empathise during an emergency that threatens lives and that can destroy every fibre of our socioeconomic system as we know it.

Not too long ago, we appreciated the men who fought for us on the battlefields here and throughout the globe, to bring peace on Earth. Now, this time around, the challenge is much greater as our medical fraternity here and around the world battle an invisible enemy that is even more dangerous and life-threatening to mankind.

Our heroes on the frontlines today are the doctors, nurses, medical assistants, ambulance drivers, police and army personnel who are risking their lives trying to save other lives and stem the tide of this pandemic. We owe them so much.

The combination of applying movement regulations and the medical battle to overcome this virus is crucial in ensuring the safety and the future of all Malaysians. We are definitely in for the long haul against this lethal foe.

The only way we can win this war is to come together as one nation, cooperate fully with the authorities and provide support for all our frontline fighters.

Our hearts go out to all our medical fraternity and security forces as they courageously carry out their duties to the best of their abilities with great sacrifice in facing the dangers of an unseen enemy. Our deepest appreciation and gratitude must be conveyed by adhering to all regulatory controls advised by the authorities concerned.

We hope that provisions are also in place to ensure that these heroes and their families are supported both physically and mentally by all concerned during these trying times.

Together, we shall overcome. – March 24, 2020.

* G. Selvakumar reads The Malaysian Insight.

* This is the opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malaysian Insight. Article may be edited for brevity and clarity.