The implementation of the Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO) has affected many of us, and it has definitely affected Malaysians who are working in Singapore.
Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein said that the government is looking for ways to help Malaysians stranded in Singapore.
Photo via New Straits Times
He told Berita Harian, Malaysia has not blocked its citizens from returning home, and if they do choose to come home, they are required to follow the SOPs that have been put in place.
“Wisma Putra will help in whatever way we can. They should be back here if they are facing hard times over in Singapore. We are now investigating the hardships Malaysians are facing and we will provide them with the necessary help,” he said.
The borders between Singapore and Malaysia have been closed since the implementation of the nationwide Movement Control Order (MCO) in March, and many Malaysian workers choose to stay in Singapore as some have claimed that their employers do not allow them to take long holidays, as reported by The Star.
Other articles ran a report on the plight of Malaysians stuck in Singapore in which they were described as being forced to bathe in public toilets and running short of money for food. They also had no choice but to sleep rough in food courts, restaurants, or mosques.
Hishammuddin added that the Foreign Ministry must find out the main reason for them not wanting to return to Malaysia,
“Is the reason for them not wanting to return down to the home quarantine procedure? If that is one of the factors here, then I can discuss this matter with the ministry. They, however, have not been barred from entering the country.”
In a press conference yesterday (November 24th) Senior Minister (Security) Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said that there are no restrictions for Malaysians returning from Singapore during this pandemic and that the only condition is that they must test negative for COVID-19 by undergoing an RTK-Antigen test at the border.
We hope that every Malaysian, no matter where you are, is staying safe during this pandemic!
By: Aishah Akashah Ahadiat
