RM1,000 fine for not wearing masks hard on the poor, MPs say

Diyana Ibrahim Ragananthini Vethasalam Diyana Ibrahim, Ragananthini Vethasalam Updated 3 years ago · Published on 13 Aug 2020 3:27PM · 1 Comments

The use of masks has been mandatory in public places since August 1. – The Malaysian Insight file pic, August 13, 2020.

THE RM1,000 fine for not wearing a mask in public should be reduced so as to not unfairly penalise low-income folk, said MPs from across the aisle.

Seventy-eight lawmakers today signed a petition urging the government to lower the amount to RM250 for the first offence.

At least five MPs are with the government, Bandar Kuching’s Kelvin Yii of DAP told a press conference in the Parliament building.

“The RM1,000 fine is a burden to the B40 group, students, disabled persons, and those whose jobs and incomes have been affected during the Covid-19 pandemic.”

He said lawmakers understand the reason for making mask-wearing mandatory in public places, but believe that the directive should aim to educate, not punish, people.

The use of masks has been mandatory on public transport and in crowded places since August 1.

This Saturday, the price of three-ply masks will be reduced to RM1 per piece from the current RM1.50.

The RM1,000 fine is provided for under the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988. – August 13, 2020.

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Comments

  • A huge fine would always penalize the poor more than the rich. Hence, a disobedient rich person may have the option to carry on in flaunting SOP. Govt should reduce the amount of fine but to include community services to shame the person. This would be much more effective for all!!!

    Posted 3 years ago by Witzi Leong · Reply