The event was held to mark the Ismail Sabri Yaakob administration’s first 100 days in office, but has been marred by controversy after thousands packed the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre yesterday to attend the event and related activities.
In a statement, Khairy said that the RM1,000 compound issued was the maximum amount allowed under the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988 now that the emergency ordinance has been revoked. During the emergency imposed nationwide, the law allowed for fines in the tens of thousands to be issued for SOP non-compliance.
“The incident is very regrettable and disappointing, as the organisers had previously stated their commitment to ensure that the programme would be organised in strict compliance with SOPs.
“Congestion, a lack of physical distancing and no control over the number of visitors created the risk of Covid-19 transmission.”
“The organisation of the event, which was supposed to showcase the achievements of the first 100 days of the government as well as all its ministries and agencies, was marred by the failure of the organisers and visitors to ensure compliance with SOPs.”
Khairy said that counters at the event to pay discounted summons from the police and road transport department would be closed immediately this afternoon.
“The health ministry will continue to monitor the progress of this programme and will not hesitate to issue more compounds to the organisers if they fail to ensure compliance with SOPs.
“As a government, we should set an example of best practices to society. We must adhere to the same standards as the people.”
After the first day of the event yesterday, a number of MPs from both sides of the aisle hit out at the government for holding the mass celebration and even sending out messages via SMS urging Malaysians to attend.
Yesterday, MIC deputy president M Saravanan said he would discuss the matter with Ismail, particularly following reports that the Thaipusam processions in Penang and Kuala Lumpur would be banned next month.
From the opposition, both former health minister Dzulkefly Ahmad and Klang MP Charles Santiago condemned the event after images emerged of the crowds that had gathered at the event, as well as the presence of the entire Cabinet, with hundreds of attendees.