HIDE: Explain methodology, parameters used for system — MP

KUCHING: The federal government and National Security Council (NSC) must explain the methodology and parameters used for the Hotspot Identification for Dynamic Engagement (HIDE) early warning system, said Bandar Kuching MP Kelvin Yii.

He said HIDE was deployed to identify premises and locations that were predicted to be potential Covid-19 hotspots or clusters, with the NSC deciding that all locations listed under HIDE are to close immediately for three days.

“Without a proper explanation of the science and data behind such a decision, it is oppressive and irresponsible towards business owners affected, especially when they are already struggling to stay afloat,” Yii said in a statement yesterday.

He said to compound things further, the conflicting announcements by National Covid-19 Immunisation Programme Coordinating Minister Khairy Jamaluddin and Senior Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob on the same issue might have highlighted the government had probably lost control of or was clueless in dealing with the pandemic.

He said Khairy had previously said places under HIDE were not confirmed Covid-19 clusters and that such premises did not need to close unless directed by the authorities.

However, Yii said Ismail Sabri then issued a statement late in the evening ordering all places listed under HIDE to be closed immediately.

“While I am supportive of proactive measures and proper preemptive interventions, the parameters and methodology of identification of such areas under HIDE must be clear and backed by science.

“Otherwise, the HIDE implementation might result in unintended consequences, including stigma towards a certain business are or worse, businesses being ordered to close without proper explanation,” he said.

Yii added the announcement by Ismail Sabri on HIDE might open up dangerous floodgates if the methodology and parameters used were not properly explained.

“The list released under HIDE which shows majority of shopping malls around the country also contradicts clear data that shows that huge chunks of overall cases are a result of factories or workplace clusters (48.06 per cent), community spread (12.5 per cent), and construction (11.56 per cent) which continues to function.”

Nonetheless, in order to be effective as a pre-emptive action, such closures must be coupled with active case detection, adequate testing and quick isolation in those potential hotspots, he added.

“That is why clear and specific parameters used to determine the list must be transparently made known to remove any perception of bias, unfairness or even oppression,” said the opposition lawmaker.