Disclaimer: This piece reflects the writer’s opinion and compiled opinions of others on the subject matter. It does not reflect the opinions or beliefs of WORLD OF BUZZ.
During the Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO), instructions about standard operating procedures (SOPs) have no doubt been very confusing with many Malaysians not knowing what exactly they can or cannot do. One of them is the SOP for the number of individuals allowed in a vehicle at one time.
Although the National Security Council (MKN) said that a maximum of two individuals are allowed in a car, people were still confused whether passengers were allowed to sit in the front seat without being stopped by the police. Defence Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob only confirmed on 11 November that passengers can sit in front, but this only comes after almost four weeks of CMCO.
During the period of CMCO, many individuals were fined RM1,000 after police caught them travelling with more than two passengers in the car. Just like the time three individuals in Sentul were fined RM700 for travelling in one vehicle at the same time.
Segambut MP, Hannah Yeoh, recently took to Twitter to urge MKN to review the SOP for the maximum two persons in a car rule. She reasons that many single parents cannot be leaving their kids alone at home and suggests that family members be allowed to be in the same vehicle.
This has garnered the support of Federal Territories Minister, Annuar Musa.
“I agree with this. Three in one car, not 2,” he said in a Tweet.
Netizens also expressed their frustration regarding this SOP with many sharing their struggles in response to Hannah Yeoh.
- “My mother is 83 years old. When I take her to the clinic or hospital I drop her at the entrance because she is weak. I need someone to be with her while I find a parking space. So, each time there would be 3 persons in the car. Now how? I know some people might suggest I take a taxi. But, it is more convenient to drive because I can easily put and take out the wheelchair from the boot.” – FM
- “True. Agree. At least can bring my kids out of the house. Since school closure my kids only stay at home and never went out. Not healthy for them psychologically. Maybe they can just stay inside car like last time. At least out from the apartment.” – CC
- Yes, agreed! Since daycares are closed, I need to send my three kids to my mum’s house first before going to work. After work, I need to bring them home. I tried to apply permit from police station, they replied no need to apply, it’s ok. But from the news, it’s a different story. I’m confused!” – DT
If families with more than two members are allowed to live together, what’s wrong with a family from the same household travelling together? But with the double standards that has been evident throughout the CMCO, people are too afraid to take any chances.
The government should allow at least a maximum of four people from the same household to travel together. And if the police want proof that they live in the same house, they can always check the individuals’ Identification Cards (IC) or any other documents to verify that they are from the same household.
Additionally with the Deepavali festivities coming up, it would be such a hassle for people in regards to house visitation if only two people are allowed in one vehicle. They would have to take multiple cars to the same location which is going to cause congestion and create parking problems.
And if families just want to take a drive out in the city for a change of scenery but without getting out of the car, shouldn’t they be allowed to since they aren’t going to be in contact with anyone else other than those from the same house?
What do you think of this issue? Let us know in the comments below.
Also read: Three Individuals In Sentul Fined RM700 Each For Travelling In One Vehicle At The Same Time
