The internet was sent into a frenzy over the weekend when the EU-Malaysia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (EuroCham Malaysia) issued a letter to its members stating that the government is considering an economic lockdown if Covid-19 cases in the country do not decrease by 4 February.
However, EuroCham has since come forward to deny allegations that MITI said anything about a lockdown or the implementation of a full MCO if the Covid-19 situation in the country does not improve.
In a statement addressed to the media, EuroCham clarified that the letter was addressed to internal personnel only. “This is an unofficial discussion with MITI for the purpose of increasing awareness about how the business community can play a role in curbing the Covid-19 rate of infection and its economic effects if we don’t play an active role,” said the statement that was recorded by Astro Awani.
The statement also stressed that there was no mention of a curfew if the cases continue to rise. “EuroCham Malaysia wants to clarify that although MITI understands the urgency of the current situation with the continuously rising Covid-19 cases, there was no mention of a curfew order if cases rise after 4 February”.
Nonetheless, EuroCham hopes that the public will focus on the bigger picture here in playing a role in ensuring the implementation of a full MCO can be avoided.
Previously, local reports claimed that EuroCham released a warning of a full lockdown, including the closure of almost all economic activities, if the Covid-19 cases do not decrease by 4 February. The statement was sighted in a letter addressed to EuroCham’s internal staff. According to the letter, which was shared on Twitter, “The Ministry of Health (MOH) has made a clear stand on the matter of a complete shutdown of the economy.”
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Also read: Ministry of Health Contemplating Over Decision For A Total Lockdown
