Siti Nurhaliza Fined Tens of Millions of Rupiah After Violating Covid-19 Protocols

Kapanlagi.com - Singer Siti Nurhaliza and her husband Khalid Mohamad Jiwa have to pay a fine of MYR 10,000 or equivalent to Rp 34.5 million for violating Covid-19 health protocols at a religious ceremony known as Tahnik. The ceremony was held for their newborn baby in April.

Siti Nurhaliza and her husband held the Tahnik ceremony on April 26. This ceremony was intended to bless their second child, Muhammad Afwa, who was born on April 19. They held this ceremony at their residence in Bukit Antarbangsa, Selangor, Malaysia.

1. Clarification by Siti Nurhaliza

According to channelnewsasia, the Selangor police have opened an investigation into the religious ceremony after reports suggested that the event may have violated Covid-19 health protocols in Malaysia, which include restrictions on inter-state travel.

Following the police investigation, Siti Nurhaliza issued a statement to clarify that some of the guests, including ministers, only briefly stopped by to pray and immediately left afterwards. She also added that the ceremony was held in three sessions to avoid overcrowding.

2. Public Reaction

According to Berita Harian Malaysia, the Selangor Police Chief stated on Thursday (27/5) that several celebrity couples who attended the event have also been fined.

Another famous celebrity, Noor Neelofa Mohd Noor or Neelofa has also come under scrutiny. She is facing charges for alleged violations of health protocols. It is alleged that she did not comply with the inter-state travel ban and did not properly wear a mask.

The news about celebrities violating health protocols has garnered a lot of attention among Malaysians. The public is disappointed that celebrities and politicians are allowed to escape fines, leading to a perception of double standards in enforcing health protocols in Malaysia.

3. Prime Minister's Statement

In a weekend interview, Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin emphasized that there is no double standard in enforcing health protocols.

"We don't care if ministers or prime ministers break the law. If there is strong evidence, they will not be able to avoid fines," he said.

(kpl/ums)