GEORGE TOWN – Make the Safe@Work initiative compulsory seeing that nine out of 14 active clusters in the state are linked to the manufacturing sector, Penang told the International Trade and Industry Ministry.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the initiative will not help to break the chain of infection if it is only voluntary.
“It is not the best solution to the issue and does not help the health authorities. As of March 28, nine out of 14 active clusters in Penang are related to the manufacturing sector,” he said in a statement.
The Safe@Work initiative announced more than a week ago allows close contacts of Covid-19 patients to return to work via a workplace bubble.
It involves workers in the manufacturing and services sectors, as well as those living in staff quarters, being isolated from the community until they test negative for the virus.
Employers are also compelled to provide safe accommodation for employees under the Workers’ Minimum Standards of Housing and Amenities Act 1990 (Act 445).
Meanwhile, Chow called for the Education Ministry to address the spike of Covid-19 cases among students, especially calls from parents to close schools where infections are recorded.
He said there is a need to hasten the screening of those studying or working in affected schools.
Chow added that the vaccination programme needs to be stepped up as the Health Ministry has classified Penang’s infection rate as unstable.
Yesterday, Penang recorded 194 new infections, making it the state with the second highest number of cases, behind Selangor’s 401. – The Vibes, March 31, 2021
