COMMENT | Covid-Sense: An audit of the Malaysian Covid-19 response

COMMENT | I had planned to have a quiet end of the year and Christmas. I have written more than 40 media articles on the Covid-19 pandemic since January 2020, had numerous media interviews, worked on many statements with the Malaysian Health Coalition and other groups.

I needed a break and had turned away a number of media requests. But three recent events, like straws that broke the proverbial camel's back, have galvanised me to share my opinion.

I'm trying here to offer an honest and evidence-based assessment of our Covid-19 response for the last two years. I ask myself this question: “Are we ready for Omicron and other variants that are coming our way?” This article is a report card (see image attached) of the government’s response and current measures.

Allow me to start by describing the three recent events that have distressed me and highlighted how unprepared we are as a nation.

Firstly...