KUALA LUMPUR – The Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM) has urged the government to streamline enforcement efforts of standard of operating procedures (SOPs) under the movement control order (MCO).
Responding to the government’s decision to extend the restrictions until February 18, president Tan Sri Soh Thian Lai said FMM has always advocated that it takes a concerted effort by both the public and private sector to break the chain of infection.
“At the same time, FMM would also like to reiterate that orders for the immediate closure of businesses that are not in compliance with the SOPs and operating conditions must be taken with full consideration of some of the key challenges faced by the industry.
“This includes those that require full cooperation from other key stakeholders such as the local councils when it comes to compliance with the Workers’ Minimum Standards of Housing and Amenities Act 1990 (Act 446),” he said in a statement.
Soh added that the industry was disappointed that the announcement yesterday had not included the resumption of business in sectors which were excluded from the list of essential services approved to operate earlier on, such as the textile, apparel and footwear sectors.
“This also includes the entire supply chain, including retail and other industries/sectors that may be indirectly supporting essential services, as well as major export oriented companies.
“These sectors are unable to remain close over this extended MCO period which is hurting their business tremendously,” he said. – Bernama, February 5, 2021
