ALL state governments must refer to the decisions of the Special Ministers’ meeting on movement restrictions before implementing movement controls in their states, said Senior Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob. 

He said some states have yet to allow certain businesses and social activities to start, even though these areas are not under an enhanced movement control order (EMCO).

“These activities have been authorised by the government after introducing strict standard operating procedures (SOPs) and guidelines to ensure there is no transmission of the Covid-19 infection.

“Therefore, the state government should refer to the Special Meeting of Ministers on the implementation of the MCO before making any decision on MCO SOP,” Ismail Sabri, who is also defence minister, told a press conference in Putrajaya today.

Ismail Sabri said the same goes for declaring an EMCO area within the state.

“The state government does not have a specific act to do so and the state decision can be challenged in court.

“The Health Ministry, National Security Council and Bar Council at the state level are also asked to advise the state government on MCO SOP.”

Ismail Sabri said while the states’ concerns are understandable, they still have to refer to the Health Ministry and Putrajaya.

“For example, in Sarawak, they requested that there should be no crossing of zones. 

“So, state governments have to refer to Putrajaya to see if we can allow certain changes or not.” – August 18, 2020.