The Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad has been criticized by Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing for causing undue panic over Covid-19. Tiong has urged the Health Ministry to be more cautious in disseminating Covid-19 information in order to prevent public alarm and support the economic and tourism recovery of the country.
Tiong expressed his concerns following Dzulkefly’s press conference last week addressing the rising Covid-19 cases, claiming that it has negatively impacted Malaysia’s tourism and economy, and caused public alarm ahead of the Christmas and New Year holidays.
Tiong emphasized the importance of raising awareness and intensifying prevention measures without inciting panic and unreasonable fear. He also acknowledged the Health Minister’s responsibility for addressing the virus developments but urged for a careful consideration of the impact on the country’s economy and tourism.
Tiong further highlighted the need for Malaysia to adopt cautious approaches and learn from other countries on handling the outbreak, specifically citing the difference in statements made by the Indonesian Health Minister that did not cause public anxiety during the upcoming holiday season.
He expressed concerns over the potential negative impact on Malaysia’s tourism sector and national economy due to the portrayal of the epidemic as a more serious threat than it may be, resulting in the loss of tourists to neighboring countries like Indonesia.
Tiong emphasized the importance of addressing Covid-19 without creating unnecessary fear or negative perceptions of Malaysia, especially in the tourism sector, based on concerns raised by industry stakeholders and the public.
He also noted that there have been cancellations by foreign tour operators due to concerns over rising Covid-19 cases but emphasized that other countries have also been affected and there’s no need to exaggerate the situation in Malaysia.
Tiong stated his intention to raise the issue in the Cabinet meeting to find a balanced solution for controlling the virus without negatively impacting the tourism sector, citing the need for comprehensive discussions and research-based decisions.
He also reminded that any preventive measures taken concerning Covid-19 should be well-considered and not rushed to avoid causing economic loss.
