By Xavier Kong
IN light of the Movement Control Order (MCO) as announced by Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin six days ago (hitting the halfway mark, hang in there everyone!), a list of essential businesses has been set out.
Among these is the electrical and electronics (E&E) industry, which had received leave from the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (Miti) to operate with a skeletal workforce during the MCO.
The American Malaysian Chamber of Commerce (AMCHAM) lauded the recent actions by Miti to keep the E&E sector, among other manufacturing sectors working during the MCO, noting the goods produced as essential, stating that “these approvals have ensured the business continuity and sustainability of these sectors.”
Also commended are the additional measures prescribed by the Malaysian government as a precondition for continued manufacturing operations, as well as the “herculean round-the-clock efforts” by Miti to get the permits approved in time.
However, sources have revealed to FocusM that there are several companies working at full capacity, despite the general consensus being to work at 50% operational capacity. These included name brands from American companies.
When approached for comment, AMCHAM executive director Siobhan Das told FocusM that she is “not aware of any member companies working at full capacity under the MCO,” stating that American companies typically have strict protocols and high levels of compliance.
“Efforts have been undertaken to ensure that our member companies are aware of all the messages stemming from the MCO from various ministries, so that they can comply with the conditions set by the National Security Council,” she said.
She added that AMCHAM has ensured member companies eligible under the exemption have submitted the right information to Miti as part of their application to “continue operations at very reduced levels.”
“Malaysia plays an important part in the global value chain and AMCHAM wants to ensure that the country remains as robust as it has been following this crisis, and for the people to quickly resume being productive and making a living. The country has always had a deep level of resilience, and when we all work together we can face anything and hopefully come out stronger,” she said. – March 23, 2020
