Takiyuddin: MCO violators issued RM10,000 fine can appeal for lower amount

PUTRAJAYA: Violators of Covid-19 standard operating procedures can appeal for a lower fine if they have been issued with one that says RM10,000, says Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan.

The Minister in the Prime Minister's Department said offenders can explain their plight as they seek a lower amount to be paid from Health Department officers.

"Yes, the compound issued will state RM10,000, and you will be given some time to make payment.

"During this time, those who have been fined can go to a health office to make their case.

"This can be done because officers have discretionary power to lower the compound to be paid," he told reporters at a media conference on Friday (March 12).

Beginning March 12, those who breach movement control order regulations will be fined up to RM10,000 under the Emergency (Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases) Amendment Ordinance 2021.

Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Abdul Hamid Bador had earlier explained that the final amount to be paid will be determined by the Health Ministry's district health officers, and not the police.

"The decision to increase the fine is not meant to severely punish the people or enable the government to collect funds from offenders, but to remind the people that the fight against Covid-19 is far from over," he said, adding that RM10,000 was the maximum, and was meant for repeat offenders.