MCO period extended to April 14 - PM

KUALA LUMPUR, March 25 -- The Movement Control Order (MCO) period will be extended to April 14, Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin announced today.

He said the extension of the MCO period was announced early to enable the people to be prepared.

“Those who are currently at their hometown need not rush back to Kuala Lumpur this weekend. Stay at your hometown and don’t go anywhere,” he said in his special address carried live on television networks today.

Muhyiddin said boarding school students who should be returning to their hostels need not do so for the time being, while offices should remain closed during the extended MCO period.

He also said that if the people had important matters to settle within the next two weeks, they should start planning their ways to manage it from now.

“Please stay calm and don’t panic. Even though we have extended the Movement Control Order, you don’t have to unnecessarily stock up on food because the supply is sufficient. I assure you that food is enough for everybody.

“I know you feel burdened but I don’t have a choice. I have to extend the Movement Control Order for your own safety,” he said.

The prime minister said the MCO period would be reviewed from time to time and if there is a need to further extend it, he would make the official announcement on it.

“What’s important now is that I hope that you all are prepared to stay home a little longer,” he said.

The prime minister said he had also instructed all ministries to make proper arrangements to ensure sufficient supply of basic necessities for the people throughout the MCO.

“It is important to ensure basic necessities remain available and sufficient, including the supply of food, water and electricity, waste collection and sewerage services, communications and logistics, as well as security and public order,” he said.

Realising that many would need support and assistance during this difficult time, Muhyiddin said several initiatives had also been announced today, including the deferment of bank loan repayment for a period of six months, and the restructuring of credit card outstanding balances and corporate loan/financing repayments.

“I will announce a more comprehensive and people-centric economic stimulus package on Friday. My officers at the Finance Ministry are working hard to prepare the package.

“The government will try its best to ensure that all the people benefit (from the package), regardless of whether you a taxi driver, Grab driver, farmer, restaurant operator, nasi lemak seller, goreng pisang seller, burger seller or daily-paid worker.

“InsyaAllah (God willing), no one will be left behind,” he added.

-- BERNAMA