KUCHING: Celebrities and individuals with influence should set a good example for the people, especially their followers and fans, by adhering to the Covid-19 standard operating procedures (SOPs).
They should use their reach to encourage people to do so as well.
In saying this, Sarawak Community Policing Association (SCPA) secretary David Xavier Hii Chin Loung said celebrities and influencers were like role models for their followers and fans, and as such they should be more cautious in their actions.
“It is only fair that a heavier fine is imposed on them should they violate the Covid-19 SOPs. This is particularly so given their role and the influence that they may have over their followers and fans,” he said when contacted on Tuesday (May 18).
He stressed that it should not be perceived that violating the Covid-19 SOPs is an acceptable act, adding that this would be sending out the wrong message to the people.
“We all need to play our part in the war against Covid-19, and more so the influencers and celebrities who have a further reach to the people because of their followers and fans as well as the nature of their work,” he said.
With regard to the punishment imposed on those who breach the SOPs, he opined that first-time offenders should be given some leeway and an opportunity to atone for their mistakes.
However, he said more severe punishments could be considered for repeat offenders.
“For example, for repeat offenders, perhaps their offences should not be compounded with a fine. They could be brought to court to be charged and convicted, and then let the court decide on the appropriate sentence for the offence,” said Hii.
He felt that imprisonment should be the last resort, being of the view that imprisonment should be reserved for criminals.
“Perhaps it would be more effective to serve community-based sentencing for a longer period of time, which in turn will benefit the community,” he suggested.
“In the end, we all need to play our part and cultivate our self-awareness to prevent the spread of Covid-19,” he said.
