Here’s Everything Else The PM Said In His Announcement Besides The Extension Of MCO
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The Prime Minister’s latest press conference sure gave us all a shock when he announced that the Movement Control Order (MCO) will be extended for another two weeks until 14 April 2020.
In case you were totally side-tracked by that news, here’s what the rest of Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin’s speech covered.
1. More than 95% of the public have been adhering to the MCO
The Royal Malaysian Police (RMP) reported that more than 95% of the public have been adhering to the MCO. The roads have been clear, the malls are shut, and the public recreational facilities are also empty as the nation stays at home.
There have still been some minor incidents of those breaking the order here and there, but the police and army have been given the power to take necessary action to enforce the order. Such action includes closing public spaces or taking people into custody.
2. The government expects to see new positive cases reported on a daily basis for the time being.
The Health Ministry has prepared for this and made the necessary arrangements. They have allocated 3,585 beds across 34 hospitals nationwide specifically for COVID-19 patients.
At the moment, only 34% of the hospital’s capacity is being used, and we have another 66% of capacity to support the patients. If the number of COVID-19 patients exceeds the current capacity, the government has identified several locations that can be used as temporary isolation and quarantine centres.
3. The Health Ministry will increase its COVID-19 testing capacityÂ
They will increase their screening capacity to a larger scale, including the ability to handle mass testing, especially in high-risk areas.
4. The government will allow deferment on loan payments
Previously, Muhyiddin announced several government initiatives to help the public cope during the MCO.Â
Today, he says that the government will also allow the deferment of loans. They will also announce the stimulus package on Friday.Â
5. The Federal Territories Zakat Collection Center will identify those eligible for assistance
The prime minister said that he has directed Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) to mobilise the centre and identify those from the asnaf groups who are eligible for immediate zakat assistance.Â
He urged the zakat centres of each state to do the same while hoping that charity-based organisations will also do their part to help contribute to the needy.
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