MINISTERS and deputy ministers are not immune under the law if they deliberately flout the movement control order (MCO), said Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Takiyuddin Hassan.

He said it was up to the authorities to take appropriate action if it is true that gatherings were deliberately held involving any minister or deputy minister.

“Everybody is subject to the law, including ministers. There is no immunity under the law. It is up to the authorities to take action if the MCO was deliberately flouted and they clearly defied the standard operation procedure. However, it depends on the case.

“Ministers meet every day on issues linked to Covid-19. After the meetings, some need (to make) further checks, including visits and surveys. For example, a minister’s visit could involve a briefing on views, which must be sought,” he said after attending a state-level National Security Council meeting chaired by Menteri Besar Ahmad Yakob in Kota Baru today.

Yesterday, claims that a deputy minister had failed to observe the MCO went viral on social media, involving a working visit where many were seen gathering and eating together without observing social distancing rules. – Bernama, April 18, 2020.