PUTRAJAYA must explain how the new compound structure for Covid-19 standard operating procedure (SOP)-breaching offences can help curb the spread of the virus, said the Pakatan Harapan (PH) secretariat.

In a statement, it said there were loopholes over the new fine structure introduced, including lack of clarity in the SOP.

“We are concerned on the constitutionality of issuing compound fines to individuals when the details of the offences have not even been finalised,” it said.

The statement from PH came after a press conference by a coalition of trade and business associations who had asked the government to consult them when drawing up SOP.

Industries Unite had previously said they were always willing and would find the time to engage with the authorities to drafting practical procedures.

“It is very detrimental when SOP come out and cause so much uncertainty and fear. Then we try to amend it, but the damage is done,” said one of its members, Teo Chiang Kok, during a press conference on Wednesday.

Teo was referring to the fines of RM10,000 for individuals and RM50,000 for businesses that purportedly violate the movement-control order (MCO).

Putrajaya said this week that it had agreed to set guidelines for compound fines, including their amount and the categories of Covid-19 offences.

Compound fines now range from RM1,500 to RM10,000, and offenders are offered discounts of 50% or 25% if they settle their summonses within a specified period.

PH then urged the attorney-general to look into the constitutionality of the matter.

The former ruling government expressed that it was not clear how the new fine structure and changes in policies can help control the spread of the virus.

“What made the government think that increasing this fine to RM10,000 for individuals and RM50,000 for businesses will be effective in controlling the spread of Covid-19 in the country?

“Putrajaya must show scientific data and proof to back up their argument but there is a lack of evidence that data from the MySejahtera app is being used effectively to curb the spread of the virus,” it added. – March 21, 2021.