KUALA LUMPUR: Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and civil society organisations from various backgrounds have urged the government to take note of their recommendations for the country to recover from the current Covid-19 pandemic.
Given the current volatile political situation as well as the many concerning social and educational issues grappling the nation, the organisations are of the opinion that it is time the government employs different approaches and initiatives to de-escalate the crises.
"Malaysians continue to be burdened without adequate protection. The wellbeing of the family institution is threatened, leading to a variety of psychological and social problems.
"Children's education is affected, especially for households that do not have internet access or appropriate devices.
"Covid-19 vaccination rates are still a long way from reaching herd immunity that would permit the economic, social and educational sectors to reopen," they said in a joint statement today.
As such, they said Parliament is still the best avenue to resolve these multiple crises, adding that the Dewan Rakyat must convene as soon as possible so members of parliament can effectively play their roles of check and balance.
Apart from that, the organisations also suggested for the current state of emergency not be extended beyond August 1, 2021.
"All MPs across political divides shall put aside political differences and work together to address the Covid-19 health crisis, revive the economy as well as resolve the social crisis plaguing the country.
"All parties, particularly the government, must be magnanimous and inclusive by involving all members of parliament in an effort to address the crises.
NGOs and Civil Society Organisations as well as professionals, technocrats and experts should be actively involved in addressing the Covid-19 health crisis and other associated crises.
"These groups should be assigned appropriate roles to jointly contribute towards the recovery of the nation."
The statement was signed by Pertubuhan Ikram Malaysia, Akademi Literasi Politik (Shield), Aliran, All Women's Action Society (Awam), Angkatan Belia Islam Malaysia (Abim), G25 Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur and Selangor Chinese Assembly Hall (KLSCAH), Kuala Lumpur & Selangor Indian Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KLSICCI), Majlis Perundingan Pertubuhan Islam Malaysia (Mapim), Persatuan Patriot Kebangsaan, Sisters in Islam and Suara Rakyat Malaysia (Suaram), among others.