PUTRAJAYA needs to get its business in order so Malaysians are given clear directives during the conditional movement-control order (CMCO), said opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim.

He urged the government to not give conflicting instructions, which are detrimental to not only Malaysians but also to foreign investors. 

“We need a government that is transparent and forthcoming with information and policies that are well-thought through during this crisis.

“It does not instil confidence both domestically and among foreign investors when important statements are made without proper follow-through and clarification,” Anwar said in a statement today. 

“The last-minute changes, such as suddenly stating that the work from home directive only applies to public sector workers and those under the International Trade and Industry Ministry not only waste people’s time, but cause unnecessary stress and anxiety during an already difficult period,” Anwar said.

The Port Dickson lawmaker also demanded the government to extend the loan moratorium period, which ended last month for at least three months as the people were suffering.

“I reiterate my call to the government to reinstate the loan moratorium.

“This should last at least for the next several months to help businesses and individuals cope with the impact of this prolonged crisis and prevent more job losses and businesses going bust,” Anwar said.

The former finance minister also said the Perikatan Nasional government was more inclined to take care of corporations instead of small business owners.

“It is indeed telling the government has been silent on protecting the lower-income groups and instead focus on protecting large corporations,” Anwar said. 

He added they should have more initiatives to save the small-time businessmen in this current pandemic. 

“Additional measures are required to keep small businesses afloat and wages flowing to workers until the MCO ends,” Anwar said. – October 22, 2020.