COVID-19: Citizens have the right to take legal action but... - Takiyuddin

Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Parliament and Law) Datuk Takiyuddin Hassan said the implementation of the Movement Control Order (MCO) currently was an individual's right to enjoy a healthy life.

Thus, he said, the issue did not arise at all that the government has ignored human rights by controlling their movements because the provisions of the existing laws allowed for such measures.

"Let's say the government does not take this action, I believe the government can be sued by the people, because it is the right of the people to have safety, and the responsibility of the government to enforce existing laws.

“So, we hope this is not taken lightly by everyone. Be patient for the time being, "he said here today.

Takiyuddin, who is also the Kota Bharu Member of Parliament, acknowledged that every person has the right to bring a case to court to challenge the MCO if they are arrested or charged.

However, he said, he believed it would not favour the individual.

This is because, he said, the current movement control order is part of the law that has already been gazetted.

Takiyuddin explained that while the Federal Constitution provides the people with the right to freedom, come out and lead a normal life, in the current situation, the government has the right to implement an order for the safety and welfare of the people.

On March 16, Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin announced the government's decision to implement the MCO from March 18 to March 31 which was later extended to April 14 to stem the COVID-19 outbreak.