Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin just described the front-liners as "national heroes" for their contribution to the country's anti-pandemic efforts. 

However, Section 2.1.2 in Appendix 12 of the ‘Panduan Pencegahan Penularan Covid-19 Pasca Perintah Kawalan Pergerakan Bagi Keselamatan Warga Taman Asuhan Kanak-Kanak (Taska)’ issued by the Ministry of Women, Family, and Community Development (KPWKM) has stated that the children of frontline personnel are at high risk and the safest place for their children is home. They must be separated from other children when they are sent to nurseries. 

  
Photo Source: Sinchew Daily 

 In addition, 250 pediatricians issued a joint statement to criticize this SOP. The statement pointed out that this guide was revised on May 22 and was confirmed with the sources in the ministry that this guide is an official revised version. This statement was supported by the Malaysian Paediatric Association.

The statement pointed out that the information conveyed in this guide seems to be telling the front-liners that "Yes, we want your hard work, sacrifice, as well as the risk to yourself and your family, but we will not take care of your children. Your child is 'contaminated' and must be separated. It is best not to send your children to a nursery. "

Photo Source: Signature Market

The statement pointed out that the KPWKM should protect the rights and interests of all children and parents, rather than exploiting or sending out such inclusive and alienating messages. Besides, the pediatricians desperately require childcare so that they can serve the country and they wonder if the Ministry of Health (MoH) was consulted concerning this policy decision. 

The statement also called on the Prime Minister to immediately correct this unfair decision made by the KPWKM and let the childcare centre accept their children again. 

Source: Sinchew Daily

Cover photo: Sinchew Daily | Twitter of Dr, Zainal Arwin