THE state of emergency previously imposed in the Gerik parliamentary constituency in Perak and Bugaya constituency in Sabah has proven that such a measure will not weaken investor confidence in Malaysia, said Senior Minister Mohamed Azmin Ali.

The international trade and industry minister said foreign investors would instead view the government’s determination and seriousness in containing the Covid-19 pandemic.

He said that since the emergency proclamation on Tuesday, business activities had continued as usual.

“Investors are more confident of Malaysia’s success by responsibly dealing with the outbreak, so we will continue the effort. 

“When we are able to slow down the curve, the country’s economy will recover faster; and if the period is longer, (the impact) will be bigger. That’s why we need a situation whereby an emergency ordinance is decreed by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong with the intention of fighting Covid-19,” he told reporters at the Social Welfare Department office in Kota Tinggi today.

The Gombak MP said the emergency proclamation was aimed at dealing more effectively with the pandemic issue.

“The attorney-general has also given a long detailed explanation at the National Security Council’s meeting yesterday to all the chief ministers present, including those from the Pakatan Harapan-led state governments.

“We have given the explanation, which was well received by all,” he said in response to some analysts’ claim that foreign investors confidence might be affected due to the state of emergency’s implementation.

On Tuesday, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, consented to the proclamation of a nationwide state of emergency as a proactive move to curb the pandemic. – Bernama, January 17, 2021.