KUALA LUMPUR, Jan. 25 -- Umno information chief Shahril Hamdan has urged the government to clear the air over a proposed economic shutdown if the Covid-19 situation does not improve by Feb 4.

A leaked memo by EU-Malaysia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Eurocham Malaysia) to its members following an informal meeting with the International Trade & Industry Ministry (Miti) last Friday had mentioned the proposal and was widely shared on social media yesterday, sparking panic among the public.

Shahril said the government should respond to such news immediately as it creates confusion for the public.

"If the rumours aren't true then the government should deny it. But if it is true, the government needs to be honest with the people.

"Give ...