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Nothing sinister behind emergency declaration, says PM

Muhyiddin Yassin says the declaration of emergency was made solely to curb the spread of Covid-19.

Bernama
2 minute read
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Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin speaks at a dialogue session with industries organised by the international trade and industry ministry in Kuala Lumpur today. Photo: Bernama
Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin speaks at a dialogue session with industries organised by the international trade and industry ministry in Kuala Lumpur today. Photo: Bernama

Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin today assured that there was no sinister motive behind the declaration of emergency, about which concerns had been raised.

He said the declaration of emergency was made for a singular reason, to curb the Covid-19 pandemic.

He said the sole rationale behind the declaration was to fast-track the necessary legislative measures related to the management of Covid-19.

“This covers matters related to the use of private hospital assets, temporary land ownership, buildings or moveable property at private hospitals, and to allow the use of private hospitals to treat Covid-19 patients.

“So please be assured that there is no sinister motive behind this declaration of emergency,” he said in his speech at a dialogue session with industries organised by the international trade and industry ministry.

He also reiterated that the emergency would not be used to violate human rights, private property, or other legal rights.

He said Malaysia was a firm believer in the rule of law and would not behave in a manner derogatory to the legal principles that it holds dear.

“And it is imperative that the business community, both domestic and international, understand this,” he added.

On Jan 12, Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah proclaimed a Covid-19 emergency, to be enforced up to Aug 1, as a proactive measure to contain the Covid-19 pandemic in the country.

Muhyiddin said the battle against Covid-19 was a shared responsibility as the government, the private sector, civil societies and private individuals must come together and work to curb the pandemic.

“Let us march forward together, for we may be bruised now but we will come out of this crisis more resilient, more resolute, and more resolved,” he said.