THE contributions and sacrifices of front-liners working above and beyond the call of duty in combating Covid-19 have been hailed by Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, members of Parliament and senators today.

When opening the Third Session of the 14th Parliament at Parliament House today, the king invited the Dewan Rakyat speaker, Dewan Negara president, MPs, senators and guests present to rise and applaud as a show of appreciation to all front-liners.

Al-Sultan Abdullah also thanked the people for their unity, resilience and discipline in facing the pandemic, especially during the month of Ramadan.

His majesty also lauded front-liners, especially those in the health services, military, police, Fire and Rescue Department, Immigration, National Disaster Management Agency, Civil Defence Force, Rela, and others for the dedication they are showing in answering the call of duty.

“They are making sacrifices without any regard to tiredness or fear of putting their own lives on the line to look after the safety and interests of the public. So, to show our appreciation, please join me in standing up and giving a thunderous applause to our front-line heroes and heroines,” he said.

All MPs and senators then stood up to applaud in honour of all front-line workers.

The king further said that Malaysia is still in the battle against Covid-19 which first started infecting Malaysians in early February.

As of yesterday, Malaysia recorded 6,894 Covid-19 cases, with 5,571 patients having recovered and discharged from hospitals. The death toll stands at 113 people.

“To all the rakyat, continue to look after your health, your family’s health and your community’s health. Stay away from mass gatherings and continue practising social distancing.

“Hopefully, Malaysia will achieve a resounding success in overcoming this Covid-19 pandemic,” Al-Sultan Abdullah said. – Bernama, May 18, 2020.