There was a real concern that because Parliament was not convened in a meaningful way earlier in the pandemic, the country is behind the curve on Covid-specific legislation. Now, with this first substantial Parliamentary session, since the twin political and public health crises -- expectations are high for progress on legislation that will address the pandemic and expected recession. Melisa Idris and Sharaad speak to Assoc Prof Dr Kartini Aboo Talib, Deputy Director, Institute of Ethnic Studies, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia.