The world of Tzu Chi April 2020 (Vol.121)

eature Why should we stay at home? As Malaysia entered the second phase of the MCO, many fretted over disrupted routines and the prolonged suspension of business operations in various sectors. Malaysians were left with no choice but to adapt. But why is the MCO necessary? F ollowing Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin’s announcement on the implementation of the movement control order (MCO) effective March 18, 2020, Malaysians found themselves drilled with constant “stay at home” reminders over the coming weeks, besides adjusting to the “new normal” of self- isolation, transitioning from our usual school and workplace routines to online-based learning and work-from-home settings. We are gradually confronted with the realization that the everyday liberties that we have been taking for granted have become a luxury almost overnight. The MCO is an unprecedented yet necessary move in the country’s bid to contain the spread of the Covid-19 virus, which has sent more than 200 countries around the world into a public health crisis, with many in varying stages of containment or lockdown as the numbers of confirmed cases and deaths continue to rise. Even world leaders, celebrities and other prominent figures are not spared from infection; British royal Prince Charles, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, First Lady of Canada Sophie Trudeau, Hollywood actor Tom Hanks and his wife Rita Wilson have all tested positive for Covid-19. Between the MCO announcement on March 16 and its enforcement on March 18, Malaysians were left with a narrow one-day window to prepare for the two-week isolation period ahead. However, the directive initially seemed counterintuitive as hordes of anxious shoppers crowded into supermarkets to replenish groceries and essentials, triggering a “panic buying” phenomenon that potentially heightened the risk of cross-infection amongst the masses. News of the impending MCO had also sparked a “balik kampung” exodus as some Malaysians viewed the 14-day stay-home order as the ideal opportunity for a welcome “break” or a hometown getaway. After the MCO came into full force on March 18, the National Security Council (NSC) and the Ministry of Health (MOH) imposed multiple rules to ensure strict adherence to the order; those who disobey the ruling are liable to a fine, a prison term or both. Yet, a handful of recalcitrant Malaysians remained oblivious to the ruling, gathering in groups for meals outside or loitering at their whim. Henceforth, the police force began conducting patrols and roadblocks to clamp down on errant behaviour and urge travelling Malaysians to stay home. Army personnel were mobilized several days into the MCO to assist the police in maintaining order. Gradually, Malaysians have become increasingly aware of the need for isolation, home quarantine and social distancing. Public awareness of the importance of precautionary measures such as wearing face masks in public spaces and frequent hand-washing seemed to rise alongside the number of confirmed Covid-19 cases. The importance of social distancing On March 25, Prime Minister Tan Sri 2020 • 04 14