The Movement Control Order (MCO) may be tightened without any warning if the situation warrants it.

Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Legal Affairs), Datuk Takiyuddin Hassan, said the authorities had made ample announcements before and during the enforcement of the MCO from March 18 to April 14.

In fact, he added, the ongoing MCO was being enforced assertively but with prudence.

"I think if the situation warrants it, there is no stopping (the government from tightening the movement order).

"Arrests that have been made and fines imposed on individuals who do not comply with the MCO so far, serves as a warning to the public," he said.

Takiyuddin explained that the government, in adopting various laws in implementing the MCO, would not tolerate those who chose to defy it.

Still, he added, heads of families were still allowed to come out to buy daily necessities.