Things are pretty rough in Malaysia right now, with the Movement Control Order getting extended because of the COVID-19 pandemic. But things are really not that bad, considering we can still go out and get groceries. Even those that defy the order get punished quite lightly. At least, in comparison to one of our neighbours.
The Star reports that in the Philippines, President Rodrigo Duterte warned that those who violate COVID-19 lockdown measures could be shot. Duterte was quoted as saying that “My orders to the police and military … if there is trouble and there’s an occasion that they fight back and your lives are in danger, shoot them dead.”
President Duterte made the comment in response to a couple of situations. Among them was a protest by residents in a poor area regarding government food aid. Another was the abuse and discrimination faced by the hospital workers.
Duterte’s office says that the president was exaggerating to make a point. The country’s police chief also said that no one would actually be shot. But President Duterte prominently made similar statements in his war on drugs. And it remains to be seen if he will actually do what he threatened to, in the name of controlling the COVID-19 pandemic in the Philippines.
So, all things considered, we have it quite easy. Never mind the fact that we are not even in an actual lock down. But it’s still no reason for us to not stay in and stay safe.
(Source: The Star. Image: Wikipedia)
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