Klang MP Charles Santiago said photos from the event “speak horrors” as thousands stood in close proximity to access the exhibition area.

“This isn’t just irresponsible but criminal to bring large groups of people together when we are battling Covid-19,” he said in a statement.

The event, which runs for four days at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, is to showcase the government’s achievements in the first 100 days since Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob named his Cabinet in late August.

National Security Council deputy director-general Rodzi Md Saad said strict SOPs had been prepared for the programme.

However, Santiago said just having the SOPs was not enough and that authorities should ensure they were being strictly complied with.

“Media reports say people were unmasked, there were kids and even Khairy who doesn’t waste any time in reminding us to follow SOP was present.”

He said the event should be stopped immediately as more visitors were expected over the weekend.

“I get intimidated by police for distributing vegetables and groceries despite strict compliance (with SOPs) but the prime minister can get away with anything? Double standards,” he said.