SEREMBAN: The public health situation in the country, which has been affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, needs to be stable before the 15th General Election (GE15) can be held, says Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin.

       “Even when the country has entered the transition to endemic phase, it does not mean that the pandemic has ended,” he said.

       In fact, he stressed that everyone should be cautious as a general election involves many people.

       “When the country’s borders are opened, the spacing between the congregants (at mosques and surau) narrowed and the capacity limit terminated, it does not mean that we can do anything we like.

       “The Johor state election has just ended, so I feel it is better for the public health situation to be really stable first.

       “I also see that the Federal Government has an agreement (Memorandum of Understanding on Transformation and Political Stability) until July, so there is no urgent need for it (GE15) as the government is stable, it will not collapse and laws can be passed in Parliament.

       “So let’s not do anything unnecessary just because we see a political opportunity,” Bernama quoted him as telling reporters after attending a community service programme organised by the Malaysian Association of Medical Assistants yesterday.

       Khairy also said discussions must be held with the Election Commission to find the best mechanism for allowing Covid-19 patients to vote in elections.

       “Malaysians indeed have the right to vote but as the country is still (in the midst of) the pandemic, we need to think of a safe mechanism to enable Covid-19 patients to vote without adversely affecting people’s health.

       “Yes, it is their (Covid-19 patients) right to vote and it’s also the right of Malaysians not to get the Covid-19 infection. Hence, in balancing these rights, we need to have the best mechanism,” he added.

       On a proposal that Low-Risk Covid-19 Assessment and Treatment Centres (PKRC) be made voting centres, Khairy said questions could arise about the health and safety of family members when sending patients to the PKRC.

       Khairy also said 54 compound notices were issued during the Johor election, adding that compliance with the Covid-19 standard operating procedure during that period was generally good.