End the emergency, open Parliament and restore the country together

Source Joint Statement

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia--Non-Governmental Organizations and Civil Society Organizations from various backgrounds are deeply concerned and concerned about the Covid-19 health crisis which has led to various negative implications on the economy and social of the masses.

Since the emergency order came into effect from January 2021, the Covid-19 epidemic has not only failed to recover but has become increasingly deplorable with an uncontrolled increase in cases, an increase in the number of deaths and a heavy burden on the national health system. In early June 2021, the government once again had to implement the Movement Control Order (MCO). This has caused anxiety and various difficulties to the public. Clearly, the emergency has so far failed to address the Covid-19 outbreak.

Without effective checks and balances, the emergency has undermined the practice of parliamentary democracy. This has led to arbitrary actions by the executive without the necessary accountability.

The emergency did not have a positive impact on COVID-19 health crisis management. In this regard, the country is not only experiencing a health crisis, but also a worsening economic and social crisis.

The economic situation of the people continues to be burdened without proper protection. The well -being of the family institution is threatened causing a variety of psychological and social problems. Children's education is affected, especially from households that do not have internet equipment or facilities. COVI-19 vaccination rates are still a long way from reaching cluster immunity levels that allow the economic, social and educational sectors to reopen.

Taking into account the highly volatile political situation, non-governmental organisations and civil society organisations view different approaches as well as more serious initiatives should be taken to address the escalating crisis. Parliament is the best platform to resolve this crisis:

1. A parliamentary session shall be convened as soon as possible so that the members of parliament can play a particular role in implementing the practice of check and balance effectively.

2. The emergency must be terminated and not extended after August 1, 2021.

3. All MPs put aside political differences and work together to address the COVID-19 health crisis, revive the economy as well as resolve the education crisis and social crisis plaguing the country. All parties, especially the government, must be big-hearted and open by involving all members of parliament in efforts to address the crises.

4. Non-governmental organisations and civil society organisations as well as professionals, technocrats and experts in the field should be actively involved in efforts to address the COVID-19 health crisis and other emerging crises. These groups should be given a role to jointly contribute towards the recovery of the country.

Non-governmental organisations and civil society organisations always strive to do the best for Malaysia and are ready to work together with various parties to resolve the crises that are plaguing the country.