On duty: Police checking a car at a roadblock in Bandar Utama, Petaling Jaya, on Sunday. — AZHAR MAHFOF/The Star
ENFORCEMENT of the Covid-19 SOPs is at a critical stage and I see that the police have begun to evolve into combining assistance and implementing the law for full compliance. This approach is better, more humane and on the right track in balancing enforcement with compassion during this extraordinary crisis.
The White Flag movement has come as a shock and a wake up call. We never imagined that so many of our fellow Malaysians are unable to feed their families. The movement seems to have triggered a new sense of patriotism with people rallying together to help those in need. Politics really has no place in this situation. The police too must adapt and readjust accordingly.
The Selangor police has set the ball rolling by getting their personnel to patrol and respond immediately to assist any household that flies a white flag. This is definitely effective as police patrols cover almost every corner of the state. I feel that this should be done nationwide.
The police are excellently placed to contact the right authorities with the relevant government handouts as well as help to expedite any private assistance for the needy. The process will become more efficient and quicker. SOPs too can be strictly adhered to with the guidance and assistance of the police as aid is handed over. Patience, understanding and compassion will go a long way in getting everyone on board.
Fines and arrests must become last resorts as many are struggling to put food on the table. The hungrier people are, the more the urgency to become mobile in search of sustenance. It is a logical and natural reaction in the struggle to survive. The police must weigh this fact when enforcing the SOPs.
However, the law must come down hard on those who flout the SOPs for sociopolitical and personal gain – especially those who abuse the power of their positions to gather for recreation. A minimum custodial sentence should become the norm for this category of offenders as they have the means to pay any amount of fines. The Executive branch of government too must do its part and not step in when an enforcement agency is carrying out its duties. This is when sporadic abuses of power arise and dishearten the public while also ruining the image of the police.
We are at a critical juncture in the war against this unseen and lethal foe. Winning the hearts and minds of the people will be the key to overcoming this crisis.
G. SELVA , Ipoh
