Cabinet changes SOP on fines again, offers early bird discounts

The cabinet has again decided to amend the fine for violations of rules to prevent the spread of Covid-19.

The changes come just barely a week after the government enforced a blanket RM10,000 fine for individuals for all offences - including the improper wear of face masks - and RM50,000 for organisations.

The new rules will see a maximum RM10,000 fine for individuals and a maximum RM50,000 for firms.

The quantum of the fines is tiered, based on three categories of offences - severe, moderate and normal - based on the risk posed by the offence.

According to de facto Law Minister Takiyuddin Hassan, first-time offenders under the "normal" category - such as not wearing a mask properly - will be fined RM1,500.

As an example of a "severe" category offence, he said patrons of nightclubs would be handed the maximum RM10,000 fine.

However, Takiyuddin said those who choose to settle their fines within seven days would be eligible for a 50 percent discount, while those who pay within 14 days will receive a 25 percent discount.

He said those who were fined from March 11 onwards would also qualify for the early bird discounts within 14 days from today.

The previous rules, gazetted on Feb 25, took effect on March 11. At the time of writing, the new gazette has yet to be issued.

Takiyuddin said the government would offer discounts to people with disability, low-income groups, students and those with chronic illnesses.

He said appeals could be made to the Health Ministry by filling up a form and providing supporting documents.

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