Malaysian Singers Talk About The Two-Week Lockdown In Their Country

Several Malaysian-born, Taiwan-based celebrities have shared their thoughts on their home country’s two-week lockdown, which began today (Mar 18). Under the restricted movement order, all Malaysians are barred from travelling abroad, and foreigners are not allowed to enter the country as well, in a bid to curb the rising spread of COVID-19 across the nation.

Speaking to Apple Daily through her manager, singer Fish Leong, who hails from Negeri Sembilan, admitted that although she is in Taiwan and unaffected by the order, she is feeling “quite nervous” about the situation as she has friends and family members scattered across different states in Malaysia.

The 41-year-old also urged her fans to comply with preventive measures (such as social distancing, undoubtedly the word at the moment), take care of their children and themselves, and tide over this tough period together.

“In addition, stock up on dried food and prepare a little extra for the kids, but don’t hoard too much because you should leave some for those in need, such as the elderly who live alone,” Fish added. “Because there are a lot of Buddhists in Malaysia, all Buddhist gatherings should be called off for the time being. Just have a sincere heart.”

Ipoh-born singer Michael Wong has been busy promoting his new album Unique and shared that he has no plans to return home any time soon (he was just there not too long ago, anyway).

“Ever since Chinese New Year, I’ve been reminding my family to practise good preventive habits like washing their hands, wearing a mask, avoiding crowded places, and refraining from using shared chopsticks during meals,” he said. The 54-year-old, who is Catholic, also revealed that his priest had informed all parishioners to stay — and pray — at home instead of attending church services.

“During this period, we should all be more tolerant, caring, considerate, and helpful towards one another. We should also be grateful to those who are working hard to contain the virus and be of one heart and one mind as we overcome this together.”

Singer Nicholas Teo, who is currently in Malaysia, happily assured his fans that he and his family are fine. “I often call my parents in Kuching to remind them not to go out unless it’s absolutely necessary, and I’ve also been mostly staying indoors and eating home-cooked meals myself,” he said.

According to the 38-year-old Sarawakian, his poor folks are starting to feel lonely as they have not been able to spend time with the children in the family. “Because of this, I think they really want grandchildren,” chuckled Nicholas, who is in a stable relationship but has no kids. “But I think they may have to endure this lonely period for a little while longer.”

Stay safe, everyone!

Photos: Fish Leong/Weibo, Michael Wong/Weibo, Michael Wong/Facebook, Nicholas Teo/Facebook