Balance info, avoid COVID-19 panic

KUCHING: Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC), Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, has called on the Ministry of Health (MoH) to exercise caution when releasing COVID-19 information to avoid unnecessary panic and fear among the public.

Tiong stressed that while COVID-19 is a critical public health issue, the response should not exacerbate the situation or create a negative image of Malaysia, particularly in the tourism sector.

“It is important for us to avoid creating fear and creating a negative perception towards Malaysia, especially involving the tourism sector because it can harm the country’s economy,” he said in a Facebook post recently.

He cited concerns raised by the tourism industry and the public, advocating for a balanced approach that considers the impact on tourism and economic recovery.

“We need to take a realistic approach, considering the current situation and avoiding unnecessary panic that might impact tourism, economic recovery, and the country’s reputation,” he said.

Tiong urged for comprehensive discussions on COVID-19 prevention and control measures, backed by research and studies.

He pointed out the differences in the messaging from the health ministers of Malaysia and Indonesia, noting that the Indonesian Health Minister did not express significant concern over the Christmas and New Year seasons.

“Comparing the statements from both health ministers easily creates an impression that Malaysia is much more dangerous than Indonesia,” Tiong added, expressing concern about its impact on tourism.

He reported that some foreign tour operators had cancelled trips to Malaysia due to COVID-19 fears, although the pandemic is globally prevalent.

“Therefore, there is no need to overreact and mislead the public that the outbreak in Malaysia is very serious,” he added.

Tiong plans to discuss this issue in the Cabinet Meeting to find a balanced solution that controls the outbreak without harming the tourism sector.