There were rumours about this ever since the first movement control order (MCO) was announced.

You hear our politicians talking about it, but nothing really concrete came out.

Well, until now.

Stiffer punishment

You better not be flouting the rule from now on.

The authorities have finally upped the fine amount for those who violate the MCO regulations and standard operating procedures.

The Star Online reported that MCO violators may now be fined up to RM10,000, an increase from the current RM1,000.

As for companies, they now face up to RM50,000 in fines should they be found guilty of violating the terms of the MCO.

Th new rules were written into the new Emergency (Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases) (Amendment) Ordinance 2021, which was published in the Federal Gazette website on Thursday (25 February).

These rules will officially come into effect on 11 March, the web portal reported, so those of you who have been flouting the rules, you better watch out.

What to do in case you're unfairly fined

If you feel that you've been wrongly and unfairly summoned, there's actually something you can do.

Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Abdul Hamid Bador said that those who felt that they had been unfairly summoned for violating the SOP could appeal to the federal police headquarters.

"Anyone who is dissatisfied for being issued a compound fine can refer to the police (headquarters) so that action can be taken to establish the truth," he was quoted by The Sun as saying.

While an appeal doesn't guarantee a cancellation of your summon, the authorities have proven that they are willing to cancel or change the punishment should they determine that a mistake was made.

Here are some of the things you need to do if you receive a summon that you feel is unfair:

#1 Take note of all the details

Note down the exact time and date the summon was issued to you. Although not really necessary, you could also take note of the police officer's ID number and his name as additional information. Do note that it is within your rights to ask a police officer to identify himself.

#2 Take a picture as proof

If a police officer gave you a summon for not having proper documentation, take a picture of the summon as well as your official letter. Do make sure that the date on your summon and details of your letter are clearly visible. This picture proof would help your case when you make an appeal at the police headquarters. Having said that, although there are no laws that stipulate that you can't record a video of a police officer doing his duty, do avoid taking photos or videos of the abang polis because who knows, you could get into a different set of troubles.

Xleh.. pic.twitter.com/r6D9I1rEzF
— Ihsan Complicated (@abamihsan) August 8, 2020

#3 Assemble your witnesses

If you receive a summon in a public place for, say, not wearing a face mask (but you obviously were), ask around and see if any one is willing to step forward as a witness for you. Take down the person's contact details and if the investigators ask if you have a witness to your claim, you can always give your new found friend a call.

#4 Do not argue with the authorities

This is most probably the most important rule. Even if you feel that you're being treated unfairly, don't make matters worse by arguing. Do keep calm and avoid making a scene. You could be hauled up for obstruction of justice if you're screaming in the abang polis' face, and the punishment for that is even more severe than a mere RM1,000 fine. So, if the authorities are writing up a summons, calmly make your case and if they refuse to listen, follow the steps above and make an appeal later.

You May Now Be Fined Up To RM10,000 For Violating MCO Regulations