LETTER: The "kita jaga kita" phrase has become part of our conversation for the past four months or so, initiated to rally organisations and individuals to lend a hand to those hit by the Movement Control Order (MCO).
Since then, #kitajagakita has been trending on social media to remind Malaysians to take care of each other during these challenging and unprecedented times.
The combination of three simple words has given the phrase some sort of a superpower and synergistic effect as it brings a message of unity, solidarity and togetherness.
This message tells us that we Malaysians have a huge responsibility to look out for each other in making our country a safer and better place.
In the name of humanity, it is our duty to render whatever assistance possible to those badly hit by the Covid-19 pandemic, be it financial or even emotional support.
What we can do on a personal front is to take up our responsibility to adhere to stipulated standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the greater good of society.
This not only means that we should keep our physical distancing or wear a face mask in public places.It also means that we should take the effort to observe the new norm of "checking in" wherever we go and avoid crowded places.It also means that if we are feeling unwell, we should refrain from going out.
Additionally, it also means that we must maintain our personal hygiene and overall cleanliness of our surroundings. Let's do this bit for our nation, after all, it is at the core of kita jaga kita.
Moreover, the phrase also reminds all Malaysians to support local businesses. Prioritising purchase of Malaysian-made products and produce from local farmers and breeders is a way to take care of our communities.This support, no matter how small, will help local businesses survive and, hopefully, bounce back from the ill-effects of this pandemic.
Our support to the local economy will also help fellow Malaysians keep their jobs, and give them the means to support and feed their families.
Kita jaga kita is about creating a safe bubble for all Malaysians. All elements need to be in perfect balance, working together for the bubble to stay intact. One glitch, and the bubble will burst!Without the contributions of fellow Malaysians, life will be more difficult as it is.
Therefore, the next time you think about buying something, think how your purchase can help local communities to stay afloat.
The next time you decide not to adhere to SOPs, even as simple as refusing to check your temperature before entering a mall or a coffee shop, think about how your actions may affect other people.
Let us come together as one to keep the bubble afloat long enough to brave this trying time. In the spirit of the Merdeka month, let us stand together, united as one, in this fight against Covid-19.
"Happy Merdeka day, my fellow Malaysians. Kita Jaga Kita."
CYNTHIA ROBERT DAWAYAN
Faculty of Business and Management
Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM)
Kota Kinabalu, Sabah