KUALA LUMPUR – The Small and Medium Enterprises Association (Samenta) has urged government agencies, including enforcement authorities, to adopt a consultative approach when enforcing Covid-19 standard operating procedures (SOPs).
Its policy and government relations chairman Datuk William Ng said while small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) should comply with SOPs, there are instances where non-adherence was not their fault.
“As such, we suggest a stern warning be given if caught infringing (SOPs) for the first time, or a smaller fine instead of the maximum RM50,000 currently issued,” he said in a statement today.
Ng reiterated that the association was not against the enforcement of SOPs and, in fact, welcomed it.
“We urge that a consultative approach be used as we balance the need to keep Covid-19 in check while ensuring the economic survival of ordinary Malaysians,” he said.
The association also called on all SMEs to practice greater care to ensure they comply fully with SOPs and to include a buffer time to allow their customers to adhere to the regulations. – Bernama, May 2, 2021
