Reconsider jail time for non-adherence

I REFER to the recent announcement by the government that the public could face stiffer fines and possibly even jail time for flouting the Covid-19 SOP. Towards this end, the government plans to amend the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988.

It is indeed understandable that our authorities are deeply concerned by the number of people flouting the SOP in recent weeks. However, I would urge the authorities to reconsider its proposals. To many Malaysians, particularly from the lower income group, pensioners and the unemployed, a RM1,000 fine is quite a hefty sum. To increase the quantum would be a burden to them, particularly in these difficult times.