Dato Sim Kiang Chiok
KUCHING: The move to increase the fines for violating the standard operating procedures (SOP) to RM10,000 for individuals and RM50,000 for companies, reflects the government’s seriousness in controlling the Covid-19 situation in the country.
In highlighting this, Sarawak Housing Estate Developers Association (Sheda) Kuching branch chairman Dato Sim Kiang Chiok said the enforcement of the fine penalty under the new Emergency (Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases) (Amendment) Ordinance (EO) should be reinforced.
“The new fines are quite substantial – companies and individuals would have to abide by them,” he said in a statement yesterday.
Sim said the previous maximum fine amount of only RM1,000 had been criticised by many as being ‘too low’, especially against companies that breached the SOP.
However, he also acknowledged that the new heft fines could adversely affect the financial health of the lower-income families.
As such, he said the government should come up with an avenue for offenders, especially those from the low-income group and small businesses, to appeal for a reduction in the amount of fine to be paid.
“Public information and constant reminders about the SOP must be put in place so that we would not forget to follow the procedures.
“The public must also be educated about every element of the SOP, and that roadblocks are for their own good. Public cooperation is very important if we’re to win the fight against this deadly virus.
“The enforcement must also be increased so that the public would know that our government is very serious in stopping the spread of the virus.”
Regarding the Covid-19 delivered, Sim expressed his hope for enough people to be vaccinated towards achieving the ‘herd immunity’ in the shortest time possible.
“With this, I believe that all communities would then be able to live their lives free from the fear of infection, and also the heavy fines for violating the SOP.
“Stay safe, keep washing your hands, wear your masks, keep your physical distancing and do not forget to register yourself for the Covid-19 vaccination,” he added.