The latest ukase from “senior minister” Ismail Sabri sternly warns the public that haircuts are forbidden. A less dictatorial minister might have thought of the plight of those who make their living as barbers. But not this “minister” who seems positively to enjoy depriving Malaysians of the means to make a living and feed their families.

Perhaps he has been watching UK television where Ministers daily take to the small screen to brief their public about anti Covid measures. If so he will not have seen ranting about police repression of offenders but rather rational explanation of the need for various restrictions; invariably apologised for. And that in a society that has experienced far greater damage and loss of life than Malaysia.

Maybe he should tune in and get some training. He certainly acts as though he needs it.