KUCHING: The public have been reminded that the RM10,000 fine is not final as offenders appeal to the Ministry of Health (MOH) for a lower sum.
Sarawak Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the compound was issued for offences under the Emergency (Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases) (Amendment) Ordinance 2001, and not those under the Penal Code.
“I personally agree that the RM10,000 fine is too high but we must understand that it was done so that we can protect ourselves.
“The ministers in charge had announced that those compounded can appeal for a lower rate from district health offices despite being issued with one that says RM10,000.
“Probably it would be reduced to only RM200 or RM300, up to their discretion,” he told the press after launching the Cricket High Performance Centre at Petra Jaya Sports Complex here on Monday (March 15).
Abdul Karim further clarified that the hike in the compound rate was necessary to ensure SOP compliance among the public, and not to add to their burden.
“However, I know that the Opposition, especially those who have ulterior motives, will be using this issue as a political tool to spin the facts, painting the government as inconsiderate and so on.
“But can they come up with the evidence on how many had been asked to pay the RM10,000?
“This is because the people have not yet made an appeal. Once they have done so, the amount will be reduced.”
