Technically people ‘balik kampung’ before Raya to assist in preparation and family gather for the night for ‘buka puasa’ on the last day of Ramadan, so the Inter-State travel would have made sense when thousands headed back to their hometown. But why are these people still attemting to cross the state border when all permissions have been halted and strong warning issued?

Under the Conditional Movement Control Order, inter state travel is prohibited, however out of compassion and with Hari Raya and balik kampung being a traditional activity, the government gave leeway for certain group of Muslims who wish to visit their loved ones, children or parents to return their hometown. The permit was issued by the police and those seeking to go must have a valid reason, but since the opening for submission has declared, tens of thousands queued in front of police station all over the country to get the permit. Which quickly turned into a nightmare for the Ministry in charge of security, its Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob immediately rescinded all permits and puts stop to all inter-state travel with immediate effect.

As of yesterday over 2000 vehicles were turned back, today another 1158 vehicles were asked to turn back, there were absurd excuses being dished out for reasons to make the break. Why people ares till taking their chances is beyond anyone’s guess at this point, Datuk Seri Ismail is clearly upset and probably regrets in giving this allowance in the first place. Those found breaking the CMCO SOP will have harsh punishments, the Ministry had given approval to the Police to issue compounds to all of them including a RM1000 fine which has to be paid within 2 weeks or face a court hearing.