Malaysians are ignoring SOPs, already desensitised with Covid-19

The number of Covid-19 cases is at an all-time high despite the government’s move implement the Movement Control Order in entire Malaysia except for Sarawak. Experts claim that even with the MCO in place, the numbers won’t be reducing anytime soon as Malaysians are not complying to the standard operating procedures (SOP).

Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) president Datuk Dr M. Subramaniam told Malay Mail poor compliance is to blame for the spike in cases.

“There were 606 people arrested for breaching SOPs on Thursday, January 21. This is an incredibly small number to report for nationwide enforcement. The reports on the number of people flouting the SOPs have consistently been within this range. I think most would agree that the numbers are way higher.

“The lack of compliance with the SOPs can be seen by ordinary citizens on a daily basis around town. People are still crowding supermarkets, restaurants when ordering takeaway, and SOPs are being ignored at some workplaces.

“The authorities should study the reasons for the lack of compliance to target specific types of enforcement or if increased Covid-19 educational efforts are needed. We believe education is a factor. Not all have a sufficient understanding of Covid-19,” Dr Subramaniam told the online news portal, adding that the ministry should review the fines for SOP offences which he deemed too low.

Dr Subramaniam advises that stricter enforcements need to be carried out like added police presence in all districts. He also noted that this MCO is very different from the first MCO instated back in March 2020.

He also urged the ministry to return to the original format of screening all close contacts of Covid-19 positive cases instead of just screening symptomatic close contacts.

Social and Economic Research Initiative (SERI) CEO Dr Helmy Haja Mydin agrees with Dr Subramaniam as the majority of people will not have symptoms.

“This means that there will be cases in the community that may not appear to be linked to a particular cluster. With that in mind, it is more essential than ever to minimise unnecessary physical contact to break the chain of spread,” said Dr Helmy when contacted.

Dr Arvinder-Singh HS noted that Malaysians are becoming desensitised to the situation. It also doesn’t help that there are several high-profile figures breaking the SOPs without any repercussions.

The real results of the MCO will only be known in 2 to 3 weeks as the current results are from testing done maybe a week or 10 days ago. But if compliance remain lax and Malaysians remain careless of their hygiene, it may take more than 4 weeks to see results.