FRANKLY, I find senior minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob’s explanation within hours after the release of the guidelines by the National Security Council (NSC) very confusing. 

Even law enforcers are confused with the requirement to register when they have to refill petrol.

In the first place, the police should know that we are not allowed to use a mobile phone anywhere near a petrol kiosk. In order to register with MySejahtera, you will need to physically walk towards the shop area.

Now, the minister seems to say that it is only for people who enter the shop. If that’s true, then why did NSC even bring this matter up since people would still have to register with MySejahtera in all other shops or outlets, or is there any reason why petrol stations are singled out for the announcement?

The confusion is caused by people who set the guidelines but are unable to follow the rules themselves. This is creating a burden to the rakyat, especially those who have been issued a summon. Will the summon be cancelled and if the amount has been paid, will it now be returned since Ismail Sabri said it is not necessary unless you enter the shop?

Until now, I am confused as to who to follow – the police who have the power to issue the summons or the minister.

What we really need are people who are more capable to handle the current pandemic. I cannot understand why Ismail Sabri continues to blunder, similar to how he did in the previous cabinet he was in. 

Please make sure that guidelines are properly discussed with the relevant government agencies before they are released to the public. – November 10, 2020.

* Stephen Ng reads The Malaysian Insight.

* This is the opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malaysian Insight. Article may be edited for brevity and clarity.