Removing face mask: Local actor slapped with RM1,000 compound

KUALA LUMPUR (Nov 19): Local actor Mustaqim Bahadon (pictured) had to suffer a lighter wallet recently when he was fined RM1,000 for the removal of his face mask in a public space, reported The Star.

According to the report, Mustaqim said he was actually alone in a motorcycle parking area in Wangsa Maju when he removed his face mask to have a smoke of an e-cigarette while waiting for his barber to get ready.

“In the afternoon, I asked a worker to cut my hair. While waiting for the worker to get his equipment ready, I went out for a while to smoke an e-cigarette at the motorbike parking area, which was right in front of the shop.

“Not even a minute later, the authorities came around and said that I had violated the standard operating procedure (SOP) because I wasn’t wearing a mask. They issued me a compound for RM1,000,” Mustaqim described the incident that took place on Sunday to The Star.

“I apologise and I must admit that I took off my mask, although it was for a little while.

“I took it easy as I thought I was complying with the SOP and not disturbing anyone but apparently it was an offence.

“I accept it with an open heart because I was wrong to remove my mask although there wasn’t anyone around.

“I don’t blame the authorities,” he added.

The star of the Cinta Sekali Lagi drama also said reminded all “to wear their masks, don’t take it off if you are outside your home.

“RM1,000 is a lot of money. In this situation, a lot can be done with the money. Take it as a lesson.”