Nationwide RMCO extended till March 31

The Recovery Movement Control Order (RMCO) throughout the country has been extended till March 31, says Senior Minister (Security Cluster) Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

He said the decision was made following the risk assessment conducted by the Ministry of Health (MOH) which found there was still a significant rise in COVID – 19 cases nationwide, with a high infectivity rate.

The government-enforced RMCO was previously scheduled to end on Dec 31, 2020.

According to Ismail Sabri, all standard operating procedures (SOP) under the RMCO will apply during the period, and are subject to changes that will be announced from time to time.

Click here to read the article.

Published 4 January 2021

National vaccination plan to be finalised this Thursday

The National Vaccination Plan scheduled to start in February will be finalised this Thursday, Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI), Khairy Jamaluddin said.

He said this would be discussed in the COVID – 19 Vaccine Supply Access Guarantee Committee Meeting to be chaired jointly by him and Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Adham Baba.

Click here to read the article.

Published 4 January 2021

Overstay foreigners in Malaysia with expired special or social passes

The Immigration Malaysia has announced on 1 January 2021 that foreigners with expired social or special passes from 1 January 2020 onwards and currently in Malaysia are allowed to stay in the country but must leave the country within 14 working days after the end of MCO (31 March 2021) without having to apply or obtain prior approval or special extension pass.

Source: Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Malaysia

Published 8 January 2021

14 day MCO in six states beginning Wednesday

The government has decided to implement the Movement Control Order (MCO) in six states – Penang, Selangor, Federal Territories (Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya and Labuan), Melaka, Johor and Sabah – for 14 days, from Wednesday until Jan 26.

Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin said another six states – Pahang, Perak, Negeri Sembilan, Kedah, Terengganu and Kelantan – would be placed under the Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO) while the Recovery Movement Control Order (RMCO) would be enforced in Perlis and Sarawak for the same period.

Click here to read the article.

Published 11 January 2021

What is allowed under the MCO, CMCO and RMCO?

Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin just announced Movement Control Order (MCO), conditional MCO and recovery MCO for different places throughout the country. What are the states/places covered? What are allowed and restricted? Here is a summary of what is known so far.

Published 11 January 2021

Statement by the Prime Minister on the Implementation of the MCO

The Prime Minister of Malaysia released a media statement on the Movement Control Order (MCO) which is to take place from 13 – 26 January 2021.

Click here to read the speech in BM
Click here to read the speech in English (Unofficial translation by EuroCham)

Published 12 January 2021

MCO 5 Sectors allowed to operate

The government has allowed five economic sectors to operate during the Movement Control Order (MCO) which will be implemented for a period of 14 days starting Wednesday, Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin said.

The Prime Minister said the sectors were industrial and manufacturing, construction, services, trade and distribution, as well as plantations and commodities.

Click here to read the article

Source: Bernama
Published 12 January 2021

Reintroduce measures to help businesses survive under MCO — MEF

The Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF) has called on the government to reintroduce measures to help businesses endure the reinstatement of the Movement Control Order (MCO) effective on Jan 13.  

Its president Datuk Dr Syed Hussain said the survivability of most companies at the moment, very much hinges on the support the employers are able to receive from the government.  

Click here to read the article

Published 12 January 2021

King consents to emergency till Aug 1 to control spread of COVID – 19

Yang di – Pertuan Agong Al – Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al – Mustafa Billah Shah has consented to declaring a state of emergency until Aug 1, 2021 to control the spread of COVID – 19.

In a statement, Istana Negara’s Comptroller of the Royal Household Datuk Indera Ahmad Fadil Shamsuddin said the state of emergency may be declared ended earlier if the number of daily positive COVID – 19 cases found can be brought under control and lowered effectively.

Click here to read the article.

Published 12 January 2021

Ten things to know about: Malaysia’s Emergency 2021

Malaysia is now in a nationwide state of Emergency, a measure under the Federal Constitution that has not been used for several decades.

Here is everything you need to know, if you missed the prime minister’s 11 am announcement on television or Facebook live:

1. When was this announced?

The Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah declared a state of Emergency this morning to curb the spread of COVID – 19.

This comes a day after Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin announced that the movement control order (MCO) will be reintroduced in six states while six more will remain under the conditional movement control order (CMCO) and two under the recovery movement control order (RMCO) for two weeks beginning Tomorrow (January 13). Under the MCO, only essential economic activities will be allowed to operate physically, while those not deemed essential will have to work from home.

2. How long will this last?

The Emergency Proclamation was made under Article 150(1) of the Federal Constitution and will last until August 1, but can end earlier or later depending on when the number of active COVID – 19 cases can be brought under control again.

This will be decided by an independent task force consisting of both government and Opposition MPs, as well as health experts who will advise the King.

3. Why does Malaysia need a nationwide Emergency?

The simple answer given was: COVID – 19.

But the full reason given by the prime minister was the threat to Malaysia’s economy due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin said the government required “certain powers” to bring the situation under control so as not to paralyse health services.

The additional threat to security and economic life in Malaysia is also due to the current disastrous floods in Johor, Pahang and Kelantan.

That is why Emergency was invoked under Article 150(1), which authorises the King to issue a proclamation of Emergency if he is satisfied that a “grave emergency exists” where the security, economic life, or public order in Malaysia or any part of the country is threatened.

4. Should I panic?

Muhyiddin gave his word that a civilian government is in operation, not a military one. He said there has been no coup, and that there is no need for curfew.

In his speech, he said: “I appeal to you brothers and sisters to remain calm and give full trust and support to the government throughout the emergency period.”

5. Economy and courts to go on as usual

The prime minister said Malaysia remains open for business and that economic activity will continue to ensure businesses can sustain and the people can still obtain income for the next eight months to come.

He also promised that he will not abuse Emergency powers to interfere with the judiciary, which is to function as usual.

“The judiciary will continue to be the beacon of justice in our country and I will never interfere in the business of the court,” he said in his speech.

6. But Parliament, state assemblies can’t debate or pass any law

Under the Emergency declaration, Parliament and state legislative assemblies will not be meeting, until such a time as decided by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.

This means that lawmakers, both at the state and federal levels, will not be able to make new laws or change any existing law.

Parliament and state assemblies are also important places where elected representatives ask the government for answers on policies, action and also data, while motions such as to measure confidence levels in the government can also be voted on there.

The Dewan Rakyat was scheduled to meet in March this year. The first meeting of 2021 was to last 20 days from March 8 to April 8. The second meeting for 12 days (June 14 to July 1) and the third meeting for 36 days (October 4 to December 8).

The Dewan Negara’s schedule is similarly interrupted. It was scheduled to meet for nine days starting from March 8 to April 28 before taking a break and resuming for six days (July 12 – July 27), and another break before the last 10-day meeting from December 6-December 21.

7. King can make laws

With Parliament suspended during the Emergency, the authority to make new laws called ordinances in this case, rests with the Yang di-Pertuan Agong if he is satisfied that there are certain circumstances which make it necessary for him to take “immediate action”. This would be in line with Article 150(2B) of the Federal Constitution.

Examples of ordinances or laws that the Agong can make in this Covid-19 Emergency, as spelled out by Muhyiddin in his speech are:

• Temporary takeover or use or request for use of private hospitals’ assets, land, buildings, movable assets, resources to treat COVID – 19 patients to reduce government hospitals’ burden. This can include private sectors’ manpower, expertise, facilities, labs, utilities
• Giving the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) enforcement powers similar to those given to the police, and other powers to carry out public health functions
• Increasing penalties or punishments on anyone who breaches laws and rules related to the control of the COVID – 19 pandemic.
• To fight economic sabotage, monopoly, and excessive increase of prices in goods, with stricter enforcement and heavier penalties.

All ordinances made by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong during the Emergency will be gazetted, which means it will be published and will be made known to the public.

Despite the suspension of Parliament and state legislative assemblies, the federal government and state governments will continue to operate uninterrupted by the Emergency in line with the Federal Constitution and the ordinances to be made by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.

The federal government’s executive powers will also cover all matters under state governments’ legislative powers, except for those touching on Islamic laws, or Malaly customs, or any native laws or customs in Sabah and Sarawak, or religion, citizenship or language, in line with Article 150 (6A) of the Federal Constitution.

8. No GE15 until it is ‘safe’

During the Emergency, there will be no general election, state elections and by-elections (which are usually required under the law within 60 days once the legislative body is dissolved or once there is a vacancy), which the prime minister said is in line with the public’s wishes to not hold elections to prevent the spread of COVID – 19.

Noting recent calls for a snap poll, Muhyiddin said the COVID – 19 pandemic is the thing that is stopping him from advising the Yang di-Pertuan Agong to dissolve Parliament to pave the way for the 15th general election (GE15).

But the prime minister promised and gave his commitment that the GE15 will be held as soon as the independent committee confirms that the COVID – 19 situation has eased or fully recovered and it is “safe” to hold a general election.

“At that time, it will be up to the public to choose which government is qualified (layak) to govern this country and to take care of your welfare.”

9. Stern action against those who disrupt COVID – 19 fight

Muhyiddin warned of stern action should anyone attempt to “disrupt” the government’s COVID – 19 fight and economy. “I hereby issue a strong warning to anyone who tries to disrupt the government’s efforts to manage the COVID – 19 pandemic and the country’s economy. Stern action will be taken in the interest of the rakyat’s welfare and national security.”

10. Will your life change after this?

Not really or maybe not immediately, unless you are a lawmaker.

Life should continue on as usual (but under the new normal and under MCO/ CMCO/ RMCO SOPs depending on where you are located in Malaysia), but just remain alert to any upcoming new laws through Emergency ordinances that can affect your life.

Want to know more? Malay Mail last year wrote an explainer on declaring an emergency in Malaysia, including who can declare it and how it would affect the country. You can read it here.

Source: The Malay Mail

Published 12 January 2021

Malaysia – Less of an economic hit from MCO 2.0

Standard Chartered Bank just released this Economic alert on “Malaysia – Less of an economic hit from MCO 2.0”

Click here to read the report.

Published 12 January 2021

Healthy Malaysians under 60 and not frontliners can expect to be vaccinated only by Q3 2021 or even later

Malaysians who are not active frontliners, below the age of 60 and in relatively good health can expect to receive their dose of COVID – 19 vaccinations only by the third-quarter of this year or later, the science, technology and innovation minister revealed today.

Khairy Jamaluddin, also the Special Committee on Ensuring Access to COVID – 19 Vaccine Supply (JKJAV) co – chair, said this is because the first batch of vaccines to arrive will be prioritised to inoculate those within vulnerable groups.

Click here to read the article.

Published 14 January 2021

Grace period for inter – district and interstate travel ends tomorrow

People who are stuck in their hometowns can make their way back to their residence in movement control order (MCO) areas by tomorrow before the police start enforcing tighter inter-district and interstate travel restrictions, said Senior Minister (Security) Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

He said the government will allow some leniency until tomorrow as it did not want a repeat of workers not being able to return to work after being stuck in their hometowns as was seen during the first MCO last year.

Click here to read the article

Published 14 January 2021

No change in closing hours for restaurants in MCO areas, coin laundromats allowed to operate

All restaurants will close at 8pm for now, said Senior Minister (Security) Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

He said despite complaints from operators and workers, the government is not ready to allow extended operation hours under the second phase of movement control order (MCO), which began on January 13 and is due to end on January 26.

Click here to read the article.

Published 14 January 2021

Govt can make immunisation mandatory 

The government can make immunisation mandatory, as the provision is readily available under the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988, lawyers said.

This was after the recently gazetted Emergency (Essential Powers) Ordinance 2021 dictated the direction for treatment, immunisation, isolation, observation, or surveillance. However, Section 6(1), which listed the matter, appears to be wide – ranging and vague on whether immunisation is deemed mandatory.

The gazettement is dated January 14, but takes retrospective effect from January 11, the day Yang di – Pertuan Agong Al – Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al – Mustafa Billah Shah issued his proclamation of Emergency under Article 150 (1) of the Federal Constitution to safeguard the country from the economic threat posed by the COVID – 19 pandemic.

Click here to read more.

Published 18 January 2021

General SOPs recently announced

This is a collection of the latest SOPs announced.  Currently these are only available in BM.  English language translations will be posted as soon as they are available.

• General SOP for MCO / PKP in BM
• For PKP Construction Sector in BM
• For Manufacturing & Manufacturing Sector in BM
• For Tourism Sector – Hotel Accommodation in BM
• For Logistics & Public Transportation Sector in BM
• For Oil & Gas Sector in BM
• For PKP Sports and Recreation in BM 

Click here to see the full list of SOPs

Published 18 January 2021

FMM urges government to expand COVID – 19 Act to include trading, logistics sectors

The Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM) has urged the government to expand the Temporary Measures for Reducing the Impact of Coronavirus Disease (COVID – 19) Act 2020 to provide provision for relief for manufacturing and other manufacturing related services such as trading or distributorship and logistics given the contraction in manufacturing activities.

Click here to read the article.

Published 19 January 2021

Seremban, Port Dickson to be under MCO from tomorrow until Feb 1

The Movement Control Order (MCO) will be implemented in Seremban and Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan for 14 days, from tomorrow until Feb 1, following a surge in positive COVID – 19 cases in the districts, said Senior Minister (Security) Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

He said the Ministry of Health (MoH) had reported a very high infectivity rate in Seremban, with a spike in the number of cases over the last 14 days from 777 cases to 876.

Click here to read the article.

Published 19 January 2021

Selangor intends to buy five million doses of COVID – 19 vaccine

The Selangor government intends to purchase five million doses of the COVID – 19 vaccine for the people in the state, an effort most welcomed by the federal government and the Ministry of Health (MoH).

Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari said the state government’s intention would more or less reduce the federal government’s burden in purchasing the vaccine for the people.

Click here to read the article.

Published 19 January 2021

MCO 2.0 could lift retail, foreign investors participation

The second round of the Movement Control Order (MCO 2.0) is likely to boost retail participation and potential return of foreign investors to local stock exchange, said Hong Leong Investment Bank Bhd (HLIB).

Its analyst Jeremy Goh said this could in turn encourages average daily trading volume (ADV) in Bursa Malaysia despite a volatile recovery path in 2021.

Click here to read the article.

Published 21 January 2021

Eateries allowed to operate until 10pm from 22 Jan

The government has agreed to allow eateries and food delivery services in states that come under the Movement Control Order (MCO) to operate until 10pm from tomorrow (Jan 22).

Click here to read the article.

Published 21 January 2021

Passengers must have approval to cross districts, state borders

Taxis, rented cars and e-hailing services are allowed to fully operate during the movement control order (MCO) but they must ensure that their passengers have the necessary approval before crossing districts or state borders.

Transport Minister Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong said the government had not restricted or issued any directive to stop or prohibit public transport services, including taxi, car rental, and e-hailing services, from operating inter-district or interstate during the MCO.

Click here to read the article

Published 21 January 2021

MCO in six states, three federal territories extended until Feb 4

The Movement Control Order (MCO) implemented in six states and three federal territories has been extended until Feb 4.

The states are Penang, Selangor, Melaka, Johor, Sabah, Kelantan, and the Federal Territories are Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya and Labuan.

Following the extension, the period of the MCO enforced on all states has now been standardised, he said in a press conference on MCO development here today.

Click here to read the article.

Published 22 January 2021

Provide COVID – 19 coverage for policyholders – MEF

The Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF) has urged insurance providers to extend coverage for COVID-19 to their existing policyholders as part of their national duty in the concerted battle against the pandemic.

Its president Datuk Dr Syed Hussain Syed Husman said the increasing number of cases necessitated insurance providers to fulfil their role to support the government and policyholders by extending coverage.

Click here to read the article.

Published 26 January 2021

A guide to when Malaysians can get vaccinated for COVID – 19

The first batch of COVID – 19 vaccines will arrive in late February but when can you get vaccinated?

That depends on which category you fall in. Here’s the short answer:

March: Frontline personnel
May: Elderly and sick
August: Everyone else aged above 18

Whether the vaccination plan can proceed smoothly will depend on whether Malaysia can finalise deals with other vaccine makers, including UK’s AstraZeneca-Oxford and China’s Sinovac, although both have their challenges.

Click here to read the article.

Published 26 January 2021

No total shutdown of economic sector during MCO

The government will not completely close the economic sector even when implementing the Movement Control Order (MCO) as it will adversely affect petty traders, said Senior Minister (Security Cluster) Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

He said the government had decided on this to strike a balance between lives and livelihoods although there were calls from various quarters to shut down the economic sector to curb the spike in COVID-19 cases.

Click here to read the article.

Published 2 February 2021

MCO extended from Feb 5 to Feb 18

The movement control order (MCO) currently enforced across the country, except several areas in Sarawak, has been extended until February 18, effectively covering the Chinese New Year festival that falls on February 12 and 13.

Senior Defence Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob, during his press conference today, said the extension will start from February 5, a day after the initial MCO 2.0 was supposed to be lifted.

Click here to read the article.

Published 2 February 2021

EU, Belgium assure to fulfil vaccine supply agreements, vaccine plans on track

The European Union (EU) and Belgium have given assurances to fulfil their vaccine supply agreements with Malaysia, said Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Khairy Jamaluddin Abu Bakar.

Khairy, in a statement today, said with the assurances of both the EU and Belgian Ambassadors, Malaysia’s COVID – 19 immunisation plan is expected to proceed according to plan.  He said the Special Committee on COVID – 19 Vaccine Supply (JKJAV) took note of the recent announcement on export controls by the EU of the COVID – 19 vaccines manufactured in the EU.

Click here to read the article.
Click here to read the press statement by the EU Ambassador.

Published 4 February 2021

MDBC personal contact with MITI and Perkeso / SOCSO on the following two issues: Wage Subsidy and COVID – 19 Screening

1.  Wage Subsidy Program – Outstanding
If your company’s application for the Wage Subsidy Program has been approved but you have not been receiving funds for many months, please let MDBC know by e mail ().  MITI has invited us to submit a list of companies who are affected, in order to support.

COVID – 19 vaccine order exceeds 108% of Malaysia’s population

Orders for COVID – 19 vaccines by Malaysia to date has surpassed 108% of the population, said Deputy Science, Technology and Innovation Minister, Datuk Ahmad Amzad Hashim.  In this regard, he said the people need not worry as the National Covid-19 Immunisation Programme (PICK) has provided sufficient doses for everyone in the country.

“My advice to Malaysians now is to register with MySejahtera as the vaccine programme we are providing is enough for people.

Click here to read the article.

Published 4 March 2021

Individuals who jump queue for vaccine jabs can be fined RM50,000, jailed six months

Individuals who jump queue to receive the COVID – 19 vaccine jabs can be fined not more than RM50,000 or jailed not more than six months, or both, said Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Adham Baba.

He said such action could be taken under Section 31, which is a new provision under the Emergency (Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases) (Amendment) Ordinance 2021, which comes into effect on March 11.

Click here to read the article.

Published 4 March 2021

COVID – 19 smart vaccination certificate on the cards

Malaysia is to issue a smart vaccination certificate to people in the country who have been vaccinated against COVID – 19, Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Adham Baba said today.

He said the certificate will be issued in a month’s time and that the matter is being discussed with the World Health Organisation (WHO) to ensure that the document is also recognised by other countries.

Click here to read the article.

Published 4 March 2021

Work From Home (WFH) accidents eligible for compensation, coverage extended as part of COVID – 19’s new normal

The Social Security Organisation (SOCSO) has assured contributors that they were covered for work related accidents even if these occur in their homes, allaying fears that WFH situations were not protected.

SOCSO Chief Executive Officer Datuk Seri Mohammed Azman Aziz Mohammed said his agency extended the accident coverage to encompass WFH situations in response to the extraordinary circumstances caused by the global pandemic.

Click here to read the article.

Published 12 March 2021

RM10,000 fine for SOP violations not a blanket penalty

Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Tan Sri Abdul Hamid Bador today allayed the fears of Malaysians by clarifying that the hike in standard operating procedure (SOP) compound rates does not mean that first-time offenders would be forced to fork out the maximum RM10,000 penalty.

Abdul Hamid stressed that the increase, which came into effect at midnight under the Emergency (Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases) (Amendment) Ordinance 2021, allows officers with authority to enforce higher fines of up to RM10,000 on repeat and stubborn offenders, while acting as a deterrent to others.

Click here to read the article.

Published 12 March 2021

Putrajaya has approved RM1.3b under Penjana SME financing scheme

The government has approved 6,973 applications with a total loan value of RM1.315 billion under the National Economic Recovery Plan (Penjana) Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) Financing scheme as at Feb 26, 2021 compared with RM1.258 billion last week.

Finance Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz said the total allocation of RM2 billion under this scheme prioritised SMEs which have not received loans from banks previously.

Click here to read the article.

Published 12 March 2021

Updated SOPs for CMCO

Click here for the General SOPs for CMCO in BM
Click here for the General SOPOs for CMCO in English (Unofficial Translation)

Click here for the New Normal SOP for CMCO in BM
Click here for the New Normal SOP for CMCO in English (Unofficial Translation)

Published 16 March 2021

No more blanket MCO, targeted approach best way forward to suppress COVID- 19

The federal government will no longer use the movement control order (MCO) nationwide as a tool against COVID – 19, said Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin.  Under the new economic recovery programme Pemerkasa, Muhyiddin said the government planned to use a more targeted approach to combat the pandemic.

Click here to read the article

Published 18 March 2021

PM Muhyiddin announces RM20b Pemerkasa economy recovery scheme

Putrajaya will introduce a new economic recovery programme dubbed Pemerkasa (Strategic Programmes to Empower the People and Economy) worth RM20 billion.  Pemerkasa consists of 20 initiatives and the government will provide a fiscal injection of RM11 billion for the scheme.

Click here to read the article

Published 18 March 2021

Permerkasa: Ailing tourism, entertainment sectors to get tax break extensions, cash aid

The government will extend the tourism and service tax exemption for all hoteliers until December 2021 under the Pemerkasa programe to revitalise the economy.  It will also extend tax incentives for all tourism firms until 2022, defer income tax deductions for cinema and spa operators from April until December, and exempt entertainment taxes for operators of theme parks, stage performances, sporting events and competitions, as well as for all movies played in cinemas in the Federal Territories.

Click here to read the article

Published 18 March 2021

Pemerkasa to have five initiatives to raise Malaysia’s competitiveness

Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin today announced five initiatives under the Strategic Programme to Empower the People and Economy (Pemerkasa) aimed at making Malaysia’s economy more competitive globally.  Muhyiddin said the initiatives would primarily increase foreign investments, strengthen global trade, boost digital technology adaptation and ensure sustainable growth.

Click here to read the article

Published 18 March 2021

Malaysia’s Safe Travel Portal For Business Travellers Goes Live

The Malaysian government is very ‘pro-business’ and welcomes the entry of business travellers to carry out business operations amid the pandemic. In this regard, Malaysia’s Safe Travel portal which contains information and advisory services to facilitate business travellers’ entry into Malaysia is fully operational effective 3 March 2021. Both Short and Long Term Business Travellers may apply for entry permission through the dedicated portal at safetravel.mida.gov.my. Short Term Business Travellers are required to submit the online application 14 days in advance of planned travel.

Click here to read the article.
Click here to get MIDA’s slide deck
Click here to see yesterday’s webinar by MIDA

Published 18 March 2021

Azmin announces Safe@Work bubble for manufacturers

A Safe@Work initiative to allow the continuity of operations for those in the manufacturing sector affected by COVID – 19 infections, by forming a safe work bubble, was announced by Senior Minister of International Trade and Industry Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali today.

The initiative, Azmin said, would allow close contacts of workers who have tested positive to continue working within the premises, provided they remain within the safe work bubble.

Click here to read the article.

Click here to download Safe@Work in English
Click here to download the Safe@Work FAQ in English

Published 19 March 2021

CMCO Latest SOPs

Click here to read the General SOP for CMCO in BM
Click here to read the General SOP for CMCO in English (Unofficial Translation)

Published 1 April 2021

Check your vaccine appointment

Click here to check on your vaccine appointment via the government website.

Published 12 April 2021

Ministry agrees to employers giving workers vaccination leave

The Human Resources Ministry agreed to employers granting their employees leave to take the COVID – 19 vaccine shot.  Its minister, Datuk Seri M Saravanan, said the leave will convince Malaysians to be vaccinated as some are still worried about the jab.

Please click here to read the article.

Published 12 April 2021

Expired social visitor pass holders need to leave Malaysia before April 21

The Immigration Department confirmed today that all foreigners with expired social visit passes would need to leave the country before or on April 21.  Referring to news reports about the matter, Immigration Director – General Datuk Khairul Dzaimee Daud said enforcement action would be taken against those who failed to do so.

He added that those who have difficulties to return to their country of origin could request for a special pass to extend their stay in the country but it would need to be supported by their respective embassies.

Click here to read the article.

Click here to read the statement in BM
Click here to read the statement in English (Unofficial translation)

Published 13 April 2021

Putrajaya extends CMCO in five states and KL as it warns of possible fourth infection wave

Putrajaya, which today warned that Malaysia could potentially face a fourth wave of the pandemic, has decided that Selangor, Johor, Kelantan, Kuala Lumpur and Penang will remain under the Conditional Movement Control Order or CMCO from April 15 until 28.

RMCO in Perlis, Kedah, Perak, Melaka, N Sembilan, Pahang, Terengganu, Sabah, Putrajaya and Labuan extended until April 28, says Ismail Sabri

Click here to read the article.

Published 13 April 2021

COVID – 19 vaccine: Manufacturing, industrial workers in Penang, Selangor given priority

Manufacturing and industrial workers, especially in Penang and Selangor, will be given priority to receive the COVID – 19 vaccine injection, said Minister of International Trade and Industry Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali.

Click here to read the article.

Published 15 April 2021

URGENT: INPUT REQUESTED FROM ALL MDBC MEMBERS BASED IN MALAYSIA

Dear MDBC members,

We have been contacted by EuroCham Malaysia with the following message, for coordination among all EU bilateral chambers and their members:

Dear Esteemed Bilateral & Associate Chambers, 

In light of recent engagements with MOH, MOSTI, and MITI, EuroCham has requested a coordination effort with all Bilateral & Associate chambers to accelerate the COVID – 19 vaccination roll – out to the European business community.

For MDBC, the initial step is to provide answers to 4 questions from engagements with our members:

1. The number of companies from each Bilateral / Associate Chamber that are willing to participate in this effort, out of the total number of member companies;
2. The number of employees from these companies who will undergo the vaccination rollout (ideally 100%);
3. The number of dependants of the employees of the member companies that are willing to be vaccinated (ideally 100%); and
4. The agreement of companies willing to participate to the payment of charges that might be required, eg. logistics and vaccine costs.

We appreciate your kind consideration and cooperation in this matter.

Kindly reply latest by Monday, 19 April to  with the following info:

Name company:
Contact person (name, designation, email address, direct line):
Venue of operations (city, postal code only)
** In case you have multiple office locations / operations, then please submit for each location separately.

1. the number of employees who are interested to undergo the vaccination roll – out;
2. Percentage of number of employees who are interested to undergo the vaccination roll – out compared to total number of employees  (ideally 100%);
3. The number of dependents of the employees that are willing to be vaccinated;
4. Percentage of dependents of employees who are interested to undergo the vaccination rollout compared to total number of dependents (ideally 100%);
5. Your company’s agreement that you are willing to participate to the payment of charges that might be required, eg. logistics and vaccine costs.

Kindly let us know if you have any questions.

With kind regards
MDBC Secretariat 

Published 15 April 2021

CMCO In Selangor, Kuala Lumpur, Penang & Johor To Extend Until 17 May 2021

Senior Minister (Security Cluster) Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob announced that the Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO) at Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Johor, Penang will extend till 17 May 2021. Meanwhile, Kelantan will undergo Movement Control Order (MCO) starting 29 April to 17 May 2021. Sabah to change from RMCO to CMCO starting 29 April, while Sarawak will remain under CMCO till 17 May as well.

Click here to read the General SOP for CMCO in BM
Click here to read the General SOP for CMCO in English (Unofficial Translation)

Click here to read the General SOP for RMCO in BM
Click here to read the General SOP for RMCO in English (Unofficial Translation)

Click here to read the article

Published 27 April 2021

FMM lauds govt’s COVID – 19 immunisation models for manufacturing, related services sectors

The Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM) has lauded the government’s two models of immunising workers in the manufacturing and related services sectors against COVID – 19.  In a statement today, its president Tan Sri Soh Thian Lai said the models were unveiled by the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) during a consultation session with trade associations and chambers of commerce on April 26.

Click here to read the article

Published 29 April 2021

Malaysia Airlines trials IATA Travel Pass app on KL – London flights

Malaysia Airlines is conducting a trial on the IATA Travel Pass app on flights out of Kuala Lumpur to London from today until May 27.  In a statement, the national carrier said it is the first airline in the country and one of the first few in the world to trial the app, which is used for digital health verification. 

Click here to read the article

Published 29 April 2021

No police letter needed to cross districts for those with COVID – 19 vaccination appointments

Applicants scheduled for vaccination will not require a permission letter from the authorities to cross districts, Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Khairy Jamaluddin clarified this evening.

Click here to read the article

Published 4 May 2021

MCO in KL, several areas in Terengganu, Johor, and Perak beginning Friday

Kuala Lumpur and several districts and mukims in Terengganu, Johor, and Perak will be placed under the Movement Control Order (MCO) from May 7 to 20.  Senior Minister (Security Cluster) Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said the MCO in Kuala Lumpur was enforced following the increase in the number of daily cases and new clusters.

Click here to read the article.

Published 5 May 2021

Economic sector in MCO areas can operate as usual subject to existing SOPs

All economic sectors including the manufacturing sector in six districts in Selangor placed under the Movement Control Order (MCO) are allowed to operate as usual except for certain activities listed under the negative list under the MCO 3.0 general Standard Operating Procedures (SOP).

Click here to read the article
Click here to read the statement by MITI in English (Unofficial Translation)

Published 5 May 2021

More mega PPV will be opened for COVID – 19 vaccination

More mega Vaccine Dispensing Centres (PPV) that can manage more than 2,000 appointments for vaccine recipients daily will be opened for the third phase of the National COVID – 19 Immunisation Programme.

National COVID – 19 Immunisation Programme Coordinating Minister Khairy Jamaluddin said the first mega PPV at the World Trade Center (WTC) Kuala Lumpur opened today for administering the AstraZeneca vaccine is capable of accommodating 2,468 appointments in a day.

Click here to read the article.

Published 5 May 2021

Malaysia to receive 3.52 mil doses of vaccine this month

Malaysia will be receiving 3.52 million doses of COVID – 19 vaccine from three vaccine suppliers namely Pfizer BioNtech, Sinovac, and AstraZeneca this month with more coming in the following months to expedite the process of vaccination.

Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Adham Baba said the total is for two doses for each person and about 1.7 million people in the country will benefit from the vaccine stock.

Click here to read the article

Published 6 May 2021

Selangor to provide free mass COVID – 19 screenings statewide from May 8 to detect ‘silent carriers’

The Selangor government announced today it will provide free mass COVID – 19 screenings to all those residing in every constituency as part of the Selangor Public Health Action Plan from May 8 onwards.

Selangor Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari said the statewide initiative, subsidised by the state government and undertaken as part of the state’s COVID – 19 Pandemic Mitigation Phase, was aimed at conducting surveillance through active case detection amongst the populace.

Click here to read the article.

Published 7 May 2021

PPP Immunisation Model

Following the Prime Minister’s consultation session on 26 April with industry on different models for public – private partnership on the vaccination program for manufacturing and related services, this presentation deck was shared.

We have been informed that while the special platform to sign up for this initiative is not expected to be ready for another 2 weeks, companies who have the minimum of 1,500 workers (or a cluster of companies with total minimum of 1,500 workers), can already indicate and register their interest in a pilot, via  or .

MDBC does not have additional information available at this moment, more news expected in the 3rd week of May.

Today’s statement by the National COVID – 19 Immunisation Programme coordinating minister Minister Khairy Jamaluddin:

The COVID – 19 vaccination programme for the manufacturing sector will only start when there are enough vaccine supplies in the country, says Khairy Jamaluddin.  The National COVID – 19 Immunisation Programme coordinating minister said the programme being publicised by the Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM) has yet to begin.

Click here to read the article

Published 7 May 2021

No cross state, district movements without police permit nationwide for four weeks starting Monday

Effective Monday, all interstate and inter-district activities throughout the country will not be allowed without police permission, said Senior Minister (Security Cluster) Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

The enforcement covers all states under Movement Control Order, Recovery MCO, Conditional MCO and Enhanced MCO for four weeks until June 6.

Click here to read the article.

Published 8 May 2021

Nationwide MCO from May 12 – June 7 

Malaysia will again implement the Movement Control Order (MCO) nationwide from Wednesday (May 12) to June 7 in an effort to curb the growing spread of COVID – 19.  Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin announced the enforcement of the MCO after a Special National Security Council (MKN) Meeting on Management of Covid-19, which he chaired in Putrajaya today.

Click here to read the article

Published 10 May 2021

Senior citizens can apply for AstraZeneca vaccination from May 23 to 26

The second phase of applications for the AstraZeneca vaccine will be open exclusively for senior citizens aged 60 and above from May 23 to 26, said National COVID – 19 Immunisation Programme Coordinating Minister, Khairy Jamaluddin.

He said bookings for vaccination slots can be made via the website at https://www.vaksincovid.gov.my/ and through community outreach at the district health office level.

Click here to read the article.

Published 17 May 2021

Malaysia to receive 25.6 mln doses of Pfizer – BioNTech vaccine in third quarter of year

Malaysia will receive 25.6 million doses of the Pfizer – BioNTech vaccine in the third quarter of this year, said Coordinating Minister for the National COVID – 19 Immunisation Programme Khairy Jamaluddin.  Speaking on the matter at the National COVID – 19 Immunisation Programme virtual media conference today, he said this was following an additional agreement of 12.8 million doses signed by Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Adham Baba with the vaccine manufacturer on May 21.

Click here to read the article

Published 28 May 2021

AstraZeneca vaccine not on ‘opt in’ basis anymore

Due to the overwhelming response of the AstraZeneca vaccine, the next batch of the vaccine will no longer be available on a voluntary opt – in basis.  At a virtual media briefing today, the Coordinating Minister of the National COVID – 19 Immunisation Programme Khairy Jamaluddin said the great response showed that there was no longer any hesitancy among the community for the vaccine.

As such, he added that the AstraZeneca vaccine — that is part of the National COVID – 19 Immunisation Programme together with the Pfizer and Sinovac vaccines — will no longer have the opt – in exercise like it did in the previous two rounds.

Click here to read the article

Published 28 May 2021

MITI to coordinate new one – stop centre for approval letters for businesses

The Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) is back in charge as the one – stop coordinator for businesses to get written permission to operate from 1 June.  The National Security Council (NSC) said new approval letters will be required for the first phase of the third movement control order (MCO), otherwise known as “total lockdown” from June 1 to June 14.

Click here to read the article

Click here to read the NSC press release in BM
Click here to read the NSC press release in English (Unofficial Translation)

Published 1 June 2021

QR codes on MITI letters for ‘total lockdown’ to prevent forgery

Letters authorising companies to operate during the “total lockdown” that are issued by the International Trade and Industry Ministry will come with a QR code to prevent falsification, said a senior police official.

Click here to read the article

Published 1 June 2021

PM announces RM40b aid package for MCO 3.0

Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin announced tonight an additional RM 40 billion worth of aid to help stem the fallout of a strict lockdown that will begin tomorrow.  Of that amount, RM 5 billion will be in direct fiscal injection.  The relief package, dubbed Pemerkasa Plus, will beef up the healthcare system, continue previous welfare programmes and help businesses weather the lockdown, as he vowed to “balance lives and livelihood”.

Click here to read the article

Click here to read the PM’s speech in BM
Click here to read the PM’s speech in English (Unofficial Translation)

Click here to view the presentation slides in BM
Click here to view the presentation slides in English 

Published 1 June 2021

SOPs Updated

Click here for the updated SOPs in BM
Click here for the updated SOPs in English (Unofficial Translation)

Click here for updated Manufacturing SOPs in BM
Click here for updated Manufacturing SOPs in English (Unofficial Translation)

Published 1 June 2021

Banks offer loan repayment assistance to borrowers affected by MCO 3.0

Commercial banks have assured borrowers that they will continue to make available financial assistance to those in need of such assistance.  The Association of Banks in Malaysia (ABM) said it recognises the concerns of the public and businesses that will be affected by the temporary cessation of business activities due to MCO3.0.

Click here to read the article

The Association of Banks in Malaysia (ABM) has announced that it is expanding the Targeted Repayment Assistance (TRA) programme to include all small – and – medium enterprise (SME) businesses that are not permitted to operate during the full – scale lockdown.  It said all affected borrowers, including individuals, microenterprises, and SMEs, that wish to utilise the latest update of the TRA will only need to contact their respective banks to indicate which option they want to choose.

Click here to read the article

Published 2 June 2021

MCO 3.0: Previously – issued MITI letters for work travels can be used until Thursday, PJ cops say

Previously-issued letters by the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) for work – related travels can be used until Thursday, Petaling Jaya police chief Assistant Commissioner (ACP) Mohamad Fakhrudin Abdul Hamid reportedly said.

The Star reported him saying in a press conference, that many are still using their previously issued letters, despite the government announcing that all such letters have expired as of yesterday, with new ones required.

Click here to read the article.

Published 2 June 2021

Police: Get new travel permits immediately

Many people in Kelantan are still using old travel permits to pass through roadblocks set up following the implementation of the total lockdown yesterday, said State police chief Datuk Shafien Mamat.

“For the first two or three days, we will be flexible because we know there are still some Ministries or Government agencies that do not have the time to issue official letters.  But, my hope is that, after this, all those passing through roadblocks will carry new travel permits because we will start tightening inspections,” he told reporters after monitoring Pasar Siti Khadijah, Pasaraya Lotus, and roadblocks at Pasir Pekan in Lembah Sireh, recently.

Click here to read the article

Published 2 June 2021

States, private hospitals can buy own COVID – 19 vaccines including from Sinopharm, Moderna

State governments and private hospitals can purchase COVID – 19 vaccines other than those used in the National COVID – 19 Immunisation Programme (NIP), said Khairy Jamaluddin.  The NIP coordinating minister said these include those from China’s Sinopharm and Moderna in the US, but stressed that the vaccines must be among those approved by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

Click here to read the article

Published 3 June 2021

Govt approves RM1.19 bil under Wage Subsidy Programme 2.0 as of May 21

The Government has approved wage subsidy applications worth RM1.193 billion under the Wage Subsidy Programme 2.0 (PSU 2.0) as of May 21.  Finance Minister, Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz, said the wage subsidy had benefitted a total of 73,815 employers to continue operating and maintained employment for 642,123 workers.

Click here to read the article

Published 3 June 2021

21.86% of companies registered under CIMS 3.0 get nod to operate

A total of 21.86% or 128,150 companies have been given approval to operate during the MCO 3.0, said Senior Minister cum International Trade & Industry Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali.

As of 7.30am today, the COVID – 19 Intelligent Management System (CIMS) 3.0 administered by the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) has received a total registration of 586,308 companies with a total workforce of 10.2 million thus far.

Click here to read the article

Published 4 June 2021

Drive – through COVID – 19 vaccination to be offered to military personnel, families, says Ismail Sabri

The Sungai Besi Military Camp here has been selected as the drive – through vaccination centre (PPV) for military personnel and their families as a pilot project to be implemented soon, Defence Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said.

“If it proves to be a success with the military personnel and their family members, then more drive – through PPV will be opened for the public. The locations will be announced later.

Click here to read the article

Published 4 June 2021

Sunway Medical Centre stepping up vaccination for public

Sunway Medical Centre, as a private hospital vaccination centre, is stepping up its effort to vaccinate more people in support of the National COVID – 19 Immunisation Programme.  In a statement today, the hospital said it officially started vaccinating the public on May 31 and the SunMed Convention Centre had been repurposed as a vaccination centre.

Click here to read the article
Click here to see the video

Published 4 June 2021

MCO 3.0: 10 key tax questions answered

The Inland Revenue Board (IRB) has announced administrative concessions to taxpayers through its updated circular issued on June 3, 2021 in light of the recently announced Movement Control Order or better known with the acronym MCO 3.0.

S Saravana Kumar and Nurul Imani Hamzah from the law firm Rosli Dahlan Saravana Partnership address 10 key tax questions arising from the IRB’s recent circular.

Click here to read the article

Published 6 June 2021

Private hospitals begin COVID – 19 vaccination for public on 7 June

Some private hospitals in the country have started administering COVID – 19 vaccine doses to the general public on 7 June following the government’s decision to allow private hospitals to be used as vaccination centres, in phases two and three of the National COVID – 19 Immunisation Programme.

In Penang, three private hospitals started to vaccinate Penangites on 7 June, namely Pantai Hospital Penang (PHP), Lam Wah Ee Hospital, and KPJ Penang, with a daily target of 500 recipients a day.

Click here to read the article

Published 7 June 2021

Only those with approval letters from ministries, agencies allowed through roadblocks

Beginning Tuesday, police will only accept approval letters issued by six ministries and certain agencies in allowing workers to pass through roadblocks.  Inspector – General of Police (IGP) Datuk Seri Acryl Sani Abdullah Sani said the letter acts as a proof to allow the workers to travel to and from their workplace.

“The public is reminded to submit the documents issued by the ministries or agencies that have been listed, when going through the roadblocks and those who fail to do so or found using a fake letter will be subject to stern action under the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988 (Act 342),” he said in a statement.

Click here to read the article

Published 7 June 2021

Postpone AGM during MCO except if conducted virtually

All registered organisations should postpone their annual general meeting (AGM), in line with the total lockdown enforced under the movement control order (MCO) since June 1, said the Registrar of Societies (RoS).

However, in a statement, the RoS said exemption is given if the AGM could be held virtually in accordance with the MCO standard operating procedures (SOPs) and if fulfilling the basic conditions of holding an AGM as contained in the respective organisations’ constitution.

Click here to read the article

Published 9 June 2021

Selangor to receive 25% of all COVID – 19 vaccine procurements

Selangor will receive 25% of all COVID – 19 vaccine procurements, a Federal Minister said today in response to the Selangor Sultan’s remark that the State had only received about 600,000 vaccines so far.

The Malay Mail news portal quoted  Coordinating Minister of the National COVID – 19 Immunisation Programme Khairy Jamaluddin as saying that the agency planned to speed up vaccine distribution to Selangor following Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah’s remark.

Click here to read the article

Published 9 June 2021

Govt to start vaccination for critical economic sectors, says Khairy

The government will be commencing the dispensing of vaccines to critical economic sectors, especially those which are required to operate throughout the movement control order (MCO) 3.0 soon, said National COVID – 19 Immunisation Programme Coordinating Minister Khairy Jamaluddin.

He said the COVID – 19 Vaccine Supply Access Guarantee Special Committee (JKJAV) would be cooperating with a non – profit subsidiary of the Ministry of Health (MoH), namely Protect Health Corporation Sdn Bhd, to manage the handling of vaccination shots to the sectors.

Click here to read the article

Published 9 June 2021

Agriculture sectors to continue operating throughout national recovery phases

The agriculture sectors involving crops, livestock, fisheries and food industries will continue to operate following the standard operating procedures of the National Security Council throughout Phases Two, Three, and Four of the National Recovery Plan.

Agriculture and Food Industries Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ronald Kiandee said he will ensure that these sectors continue to operate without any disruption during the Movement Control Order to ensure the continuity of the economic chain and the operators involved.

Click here to read the article

Published 25 June 2021

SOPs for arrivals into country tightened to mitigate risk of COVID – 19 variants

The government has tightened standard operating procedures (SOP) for those travelling into the country in order to reduce the risk of importing COVID – 19 variants.

In a statement, Health Director – General Tan Sri Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah said more than 50% of the country has reported the spread of Variant of Concerns’ (VoC) in the community.

Click here to read the article

Published 25 June 2021

Private COVID – 19 vaccination rollout expected to start in August, says Khairy

The private sector vaccination programme in the country is expected to start in August, said Coordinating Minister of the National COVID – 19 Immunisation Programme Khairy Jamaluddin.

He said the private vaccination market in the country has been delayed due to the limited global COVID – 19 vaccine supply.

Click here to read the article

Published 25 June 2021

Malaysia to stay in Phase One of recovery plan, more assistance will be announced by Tuesday

The first phase of the National Recovery Plan due to expire tomorrow will be extended as the country’s COVID – 19 infection numbers have not met the threshold set, said Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin.  National news agency Bernama reported the prime minister as saying that daily COVID – 19 cases were still above the limit of 4,000 a day, one of the three benchmarks that must be reached before the NRP could move into the second phase.

Muhyiddin also stressed that Malaysia would not exit Phase One until all three NRP indicators — new cases below 4,000 daily, “moderate” demand on intensive care capacity, and 10% vaccination in the country — have been met.

Click here to read the article

Published 27 June 2021

11 sectors given pre – approval to operate during Phase Two of recovery plan

The government has announced a list of pre – approved sectors allowed to operate when the country eventually transitions to Phase Two of the National Recovery Plan (NRP) following the indefinite extension of the current phase until it has met the threshold set.  Senior Minister (Security Cluster) Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said a total of 11 sectors — manufacturing and commercial — will be allowed to operate alongside essential sectors approved by the National Security Council from 8am to 8pm.

The six pre – approved sectors under the manufacturing category included automotive (vehicle / components), ceramic, rubber, cement, steel and iron, and furniture (for the purpose of exportation).  Separately, the five pre – approved sectors under the commercial category included stationery and book shops, computer and telecommunications, electrical appliances, car wash, and hairdressing salons.

Click here to read the article

Published 27 June 2021

Govt approved RM1.283 bil for Wage Subsidy Programme 2.0 as of June 18

The government has approved wage subsidy applications worth RM1.283 billion under the Wage Subsidy Programme (PSU) 2.0 as of June 18, said Finance Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz.  He said it had been channelled to 75,262 employers to continue to operate and maintain employment for 659,066 workers.  For the Recruitment Incentive and Training Assistance Programme, a total of 137,659 workers have managed to get jobs through the programme, he said.

Click here to read the article

Published 2 July 2021

Ministry plans to introduce insurance scheme for small entrepreneurs

The Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives (MEDAC) is planning to introduce an insurance scheme for micro entrepreneurs and informal business operators in the B40 group nationwide.  Its Minister Datuk Seri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar said the measure would be implemented following concerns that most entrepreneurs do not have any protection or insurance to fall back on during challenging times like the COVID – 19 pandemic.

Click here to read the article

Published 2 July 2021

Govt allocates RM3.8 bil for four-month PSU 4.0 from Aug 1

The Government will extend the Wage Subsidy Programme (PSU) to PSU 4.0 which will be implemented over four months from Aug 1, 2021, aimed at helping employers to continue their business and retain their employees, said Finance Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz.

He said for PSU 4.0, a total allocation of RM3.8 billion would be channelled to qualified employers and limited to 500 workers for each company.

Click here to read the article

Published 7 July 2021

Foreign trade groups in Malaysia warn of investor flight, call for targeted COVID – 19 SOPs

German, Dutch, and Japanese trade groups in Malaysia have expressed concern over the government’s COVID – 19 response, warning that businesses are rethinking their investment decisions in this country.  The groups are seeking clearer communication from Putrajaya and state governments on the SOPs implemented in Enhanced Movement Control Order (EMCO) areas, which include Selangor and the Senai Industrial Park in Johor, where their members operate.

In letters to state and federal leaders, the groups called for a targeted approach that takes into account the success of some employers in keeping the virus at bay, while in operations.  They also called for faster vaccination roll – out, including allowing private initiatives, for a faster reopening of economic activities in the affected areas.

Click here to read the article.

Published 13 July 2021

Micro SMEs to get additional RM500 aid under Prihatin Special Grant 3.0 from today, says finance minister

The additional RM500 aid under the Prihatin Special Grant 3.0 (GKP 3.0) announced via Pemerkasa Plus package will be paid from today to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and micro enterprises in phases, said the Ministry of Finance (MoF).

In a statement today, its minister, Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz said this payment is in addition to the RM1,000 assistance which was credited to the companies’ bank accounts registered in the GKP system in mid-June 2021.

Click here to read the article

Published 13 July 2021

FMM clears misconception on COVID – 19 cases from factory clusters

The Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM) wishes to clear the misconception on the repeated allegations in the media on factories as a primary source of COVID – 19 infections.

In a statement today, FMM president Tan Sri Soh Thian Lai said, quoting data from the Ministry of Health (MoH), the majority of cases especially in 2021 have been sporadic ones and not originated from clusters including workplace clusters.  It is evident from data released by the MoH on June 21 that 69% (398,846 out of 578,105) of COVID – 19 cases recorded this year until June 19 were sporadic cases.

Click here to read the article.

Click here to read the statement by FMM.

Published 15 July 2021

Safeguard jobs, alleviate investors’ concerns, PH tells govt

THE federal government should mitigate the business uncertainty to safeguard local jobs and alleviate investors’ concerns, said the Pakatan Harapan Economic Committee.  The economic committee urged the Perikatan Nasional (PN) – led administration to reset its COVID – 19 pandemic management and approach, which heavily rely on disruptive sweeping lockdown measures.

The committee also calls for the administration to move towards a more targeted approach centred around systematic identification and containment.

Click here to read the article

Published 15 July 2021

Malaysia now has one of the world’s fastest COVID – 19 vaccination rates

Malaysia now boasts one of the fastest vaccination rates in the world, doling out more than 400,000 doses a day, out-performed in the past week only by Canada among countries of a similar size or greater, and double the pace of Australia.

Based on an analysis piece published in The Sydney Morning Herald, the online portal said amid the death and despondency in this South-east Asian nation of 32 million, there is, however, one silver lining — the vaccination rates that ramp up.

Click here to read the article

Published 16 July 2021

More Clarity Needed for Confidence to be Rebuilt

Amid changing SOPs, various types of movement restrictions, and opaque announcements, international chambers of commerce have been petitioning both the Federal and State governments to express their concern over the COVID – 19 response.  BFM reached out to Marco Winter (Executive Director, MDBC) to better understand the concerns being brought forth by the international business community.  Click on the link below to listen to the podcast.

Published 16 July 2021

Operation Surge Capacity to ensure all adults in KL & Selangor get at least one dose by 1 Aug

Operation Surge Capacity will be implemented to ensure that all adults in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor will get at least one dose of the COVID – 19 vaccine by Aug 1, said Khairy Jamaluddin.  The National COVID – 19 Immunisation Programme (PICK) Coordinating Minister said according to the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM), the adult population of Kuala Lumpur and Selangor is 6.1 million, and as of yesterday (July 15), 3.5 million people had received at least one dose of the vaccine.   He said about 1.3 million adults in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor will receive their first dose between today and July 25 while the rest will get theirs under the Operation Surge Capacity from July 26 to Aug 1.

Click here to read the article.

Published 17 July 2021

SELVAX Industry Program for Greater Klang Valley Operation Surge Capacity

The Selangor Vaccine Program (SelVAX) Industry has entered the next phase with delivery of 250,000 doses COVID – 19 vaccine in line with the Greater Klang Valley Vaccination Plan “Operation Surge Capacity” which was announced by YAB Dato ‘Seri Amirudin Shari, Menteri Besar Selangor and YB Khairy Jamaluddin, Coordinating Minister of COVID – 19 Vaccine Access Committee (JKJAV).

Click here for the Media Statement in BM
Click here for the Media Statement in English

Published, 19 July 2021

Malaysia’s daily COVID –  19 vaccine doses administered topped 500,000 for first time on July 22

Malaysia’s daily number of administered COVID – 19 vaccine doses topped 500,000 for the first time yesterday (July 22) at 507,050, compared with 446,052 the day before, according to the latest updates on Twitter today by the country’s Special Committee for Ensuring Access to COVID – 19 Vaccine Supply (JKJAV), citing data from the COVID – 19 Immunisation Task Force (CITF).

The CITF said the country’s total number of administered COVID – 19 vaccine doses had passed the 16 million mark at 16.02 million.

Click here to read the article

Published 23 July 2021

Can the police still issue up to RM10,000 compounds under ‘revoked’ Emergency Ordinances? Lawyers explain

For the past five months, Malaysians have been living with both the COVID – 19 pandemic and the risk of being asked to pay up to RM10,000 for breaches of government rules designed to curb the spread of infections.  But is the maximum RM10,000 amount for individual offenders still in place, following new developments on the 26th?

Click here to read the article

Published 27 July 2021

Greater Klang Valley special task force activates Virtual COVID – 19 Assessment Centres

The Greater Klang Valley special task force (GKV STF) has activated the Virtual COVID – 19 Assessment Centres (CAC) to manage asymptomatic and mildly symptomatic COVID – 19 patients.

GKV STF commander, Datuk Dr Chong Chee Kheong in a statement today said the new management guidelines took effect immediately and was expected to improve healthcare delivery by streamlining the workflow processes in managing COVID – 19 patients.

Click here to read the article

Published 27 July 2021

Inter – district, interstate travel still not allowed — IGP

Interstate and inter – district travel is not still allowed in states under Phase One and Phase Two of the National Recovery Plan (PPN), except for those with vaccination appointments.

The Inspector – General of Police, Datuk Seri Acryl Sani Abdullah Sani, said that individuals with vaccination dates out of their respective districts and states must show the authorities proof of their appointments, such as via MySejahtera, the COVID – 19 Vaccine Supplies Access Guarantee Special Committee website, or short messaging service (SMS) message.

Click here to read the article

Published 30 July 2021

MITI briefing for Business Chambers and Associations: Discussion on the current COVID – 19 vaccination rate

Yesterday MDBC attended a briefing by MITI for Business Chambers and Associations: Discussion on the current COVID – 19 vaccination rate.

We can report the following points, kindly take note!

1. You have all seen the announcements that ease of regulations and more allowances are expected for the fully vaccinated – individuals, travelers, and for industry.  There is some talk that the threshold of being allowed to resume business operations would be as soon as at least 80% of a company’s workforce has been fully vaccinated (possibly + 2 weeks).  This is, however, only at the discussion stage and at this moment cannot be taken as confirmed.

   Also, we need to stress that any other ease of restrictions for the fully vaccinated (such as interstate travel, tourism, home quarantine upon arrival in Malaysia) are still only at the discussion stage and are not confirmed.  Please wait for official announcements. 

2. It has been made clear though that resumption of business operations will be linked to the vaccination rate, whether this is 80% or could be as high as a 100% requirement.  Therefore MITI can’t stress enough to you (industry), that you should get all of your employees vaccinated as soon as possible (*also see point 6 below).
3. Currently there are three (3) vaccination programs:
     a. PICK (on an individual basis, via MySejahtera)
     b. PIKAS** (MITI’s program for manufacturing only, via the company, either at a PPV
         or on – site for factories with more than 1000 workers)
     c. OSC – Operation Surge Capacity (walk – ins, only in Klang Valley)
    (d. Private vaccination options are expected to rollout in August)
4. On PIKAS, it is acknowledged that the registration process into the system has experienced problems this past month.  MITI advises companies:
     – Upon registration, make sure to whitelist MITI’s e – mail address so that you can confirm
       the account. (Ensure that your provided company e – mail doesn’t block MITI e mails. 
       It shouldn’t be blocked by your company firewall or end up in your spam mailbox.)
     – After uploading your company’s employee list, click the confirmation “button”!
     – Refer to the PIKAS manual or the FAQs!    
     – In some cases your application has been approved, but a PPV can’t be given yet because
       there is currently no PPV available in your area.

   If your company registered some time ago but hasn’t received a notification yet, first, check on the above points. After that, if required, MDBC Members may inform MDBC, as we will be able to double check with MITI on your status in their system.
   By e – mail to :
   We only require your company name, reg. no. (if available), and location.  
   Do not send employee lists.

5. MITI needs to communicate this strong reminder and warning to companies:
     a. If you have received any appointments under PICK or PIKAS registrations, do not cancel
          your allocated appointments to take advantage of the OSC walk – in vaccination
          program which will commence on 1st August 2021.  You will not be allowed to do this,
          any appointments will be cancelled and you will receive a warning, and have to
          start your application process all over again.
     b. For companies that are not in the Klang Valley:  Interstate travel is still not allowed,
          do not try to send your workers for vaccination in the Klang Valley.  PDRM is instructed
          to take action to compound any company / employer who are not complying with the
          SOP ruling.

6. Get ready:
   MITI has advised that there is currently an “active discussion” with the National Security Council to create a new system, in which employers will soon have to upload their employee lists, in order to proof the vaccination rate among their workers:
     – Names of fully vaccinated employees
     – List of employees with the first (1st) dose only

Published 30 July 2021

Malaysia administered 12.47 million doses of vaccines in July; 20.6% of population now inoculated

Malaysia gave out a total of 12.47 million doses of COVID – 19 vaccines in July, according to data from the Special Committee on Ensuring Access to COVID – 19 Vaccine Supply (JKJAV) today — more than double the 5.08 million doses given out in June and nearly eight times the 1.56 million doses the country administered in May.

The pace of daily dose administered jumped to an average of 398,843 vaccine doses a day as of Saturday (July 31), JKJAV tweeted today. This is up about 18 times from the average of 22,238 shots a day seen in March, as Malaysia ramped up its vaccination rate in the last few months with the aim of fully vaccinating all its adult population by October.

Click here to read the article

Published 1 August 2021

Applications for SPIN 2.0, CBRM 2.0 financing schemes to start from Aug 15

Microbusinesses affected by the COVID – 19 pandemic can start applying for financing under the Informal Financing Scheme (SPIN) 2.0 and COVID Business Recovery Financing Scheme (CBRM) 2.0, from Aug 15.

Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, said that a total of RM100 million was allocated for the implementation of the schemes under the National People’s Well-Being and Economic Recovery Package (PEMULIH), which is expected to benefit 11,500 entrepreneurs.

Click here to read the article

Published 1 August 2021

SOPs at mega PPVs to be tightened to reduce infection risk

The standard operating procedures (SOPs) at vaccination centres (PPVs) especially the mega – scale ones will be tightened and enhanced to reduce the risk of COVID – 19 infections.

National COVID – 19 Immunisation Programme Coordinating Minister Khairy Jamaluddin said apart from scheduling an appointment time and implementing physical distancing, time spent at the PPVs would be cut short by speeding up the vaccination process for each recipient, which is done by introducing the digital consent form on the MySejahtera application.

Click here to read the article

Published 1 August 2021

Walk – in vaccination in Klang Valley to begin on Aug 2

Walk-in vaccination will be launched at selected vaccination centres in the Klang Valley on Monday (Aug 2), said National COVID – 19 Immunisation Programme (PICK) Coordinating Minister Khairy Jamaluddin.

Khairy, who is Science, Technology and Innovation Minister, said the walk – in vaccination would kick off after the Operation Surge Capacity vaccination programme in the Klang Valley ends tomorrow.

Click here to read the article

Published 1 August 2021

Pos Malaysia to resume road tax, driving licence renewals from Aug 9

Pos Malaysia will resume road tax and driving licence renewals at all its post offices from Monday (Aug 9) by appointment.

It said in a statement on Saturday (Aug 7) that customers can book an appointment through the Outlet Finder feature at www.pos.com.my or Pos Malaysia’s mobile application starting Sunday (Aug 8), adding that the appointments are necessary to avoid overcrowding at their premises.

Click here to read the article

Published 8 August 2021

Launch of Malaysia, Heart of digital (MHODA) portal, a Single Window to Facilitate Digital Investment into Malaysia

Datuk Sri Mustapa bin Mohamed (Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Economy), recently launched  the Malaysia, Heart of Digital ASEAN (MHODA) portal, a single platform to attract and facilitate digital investments into Malaysia.  

It’s announcement, in conjunction with Malaysia Tech Month 2021, is set to boost the month long virtual event of electrifying digital and technology programs and promotions.

Click here to read the article

Click here to visit the Portal
Click here to read the Media Release in English

Published 9 August 2021

Application for Home Quarantine

In the absence of a formal written SOP for requesting home quarantine, please take note:

1. Some media reports, it was stated that this facility only applies to Malaysian citizens and to foreigners with Permanent Residency (PR) status, while in other reports foreigners (expats) with a RP – T or EP working visa were included (as long as the applicant has a residence in the country. MDBC has not yet been able to verify how all inclusive the new guideline is, this may only become clear once the relaxation of rules in the economic sector is announced.

2. Travelers may consider e mailing the Ministry of Health Home Surveillance Order (HSO) team at  at least seven (7) days prior to travel to request home quarantine, including the following documents:

• Travel itinerary / tickets
• Passport
• Malaysian visa / pass (If applicable)
• Vaccine card
• Residential address in Malaysia (where the traveler will quarantine)
• PCR test results (send as a follow up e – mail within three (3) days of scheduled travel)

Being vaccinated does NOT guarantee home quarantine will be approved.  Permission for home quarantine is at the decision and discretion of the Malaysian Ministry of Health.

You may also fill in this form to e mail the Ministry of Health at the address provided above (Unofficial form)

Click here for MySejahtera Traveller info

Published 12 August 2021

The 11 COVID – 19 self – test kits with MoH’s approval

The Health Ministry released today a list of 11 brands of COVID – 19 self – test kits that have been granted conditional approval for public use.

Three brands were first reported to have been approved for public use last month. They are: Salixium COVID – 19 rapid antigent test produced by Reszon Diagnostics International Sdn Bhd; Gmate COVID – 19 Ag by Citymedic Sdn Bhd; and Beright COVID – 19 antigen rapid test device by Medinics (M) Sdn Bhd.

The full list of the 11 brands and the types of tests are as below:

-Salixium COVID – 19 Rapid Antigen Rapid Test (Saliva / Nasal Swab Samples)

-Gmate COVID – 19 AG Saliva for Home Use

-Alltest COVID – 19 Antigen Rapid Test (Oral / Fluid)

-Beright- COVID – 19 Antigen Rapid Test Device (Oral / Fluid)

-JusCheck COVID – 19 Antigen Rapid Test (Oral / Fluid)

-Longsee 2019 – nCov AG & Influenza A / B Rapid Co – Detection Kit (Immunochromatography_Home Based Use

-Sichuan Xincheng SARS – Cov – 2 Antigen Assay

-Flowflex SARS – COV – 2 Antigen Rapid Test (Self – Testing)

-Standard Q COVID – 19 AG Saliva Home Test

-ProDetect COVID – 19 Antigen Rapid Test (Saliva)

-Newgene Bioengineering COVID – 19 Antigen Detection Kit

Click here to read the article

Published 13 August 2021

Flow Chart for Travelers Entering Malaysia

As announced earlier, fully vaccinated travelers entering Malaysia may apply for home quarantine. 
Before Departure, travelers will need to:
– Download and register the health declaration in MySejahtera
– Undergo RT – PCR COVID – 19 test within three (3) days before departure
– Bring the COVID – 19 test results
– Apply for quarantine at home / residence via e mail at 
– Bring the quarantine permission e mail 

Click here to see the flow chart in BM
Click here to see the flow chart in English (Unofficial Translation)

Published 16 August 2021

Vaccination Developments

Malaysia has granted conditional approval for the Moderna COVID – 19 vaccine for emergency use, said Health Director – General, Tan Sri Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah. The ministry will continue to evaluate the quality, safety, and effectiveness of the vaccine to ensure that its benefits outweigh the risks, he added. Currently, Malaysia administers the Pfizer – BioNTech, Sinovac, and AstraZeneca vaccines, which also require two – dose shots.

Click here to read the article.

Click here to view the latest vaccination numbers.

Published 16 August 2021

Comply with SOPs or see privileges withdrawn, business premises told

Owners of business premises have been advised to adhere to the standard operating procedures (SOPs) prescribed under the National Recovery Plan (PPN) to avoid the privileges granted to operate being withdrawn.

Bukit Aman Internal Security and Public Order Department director Datuk Zainal Abidin Kasim said the police would conduct checks from time to time to ensure owners comply with the set SOPs.

Click here to read the article

Published 16 August 2021

Further easing of business SOP in National Recovery Plan Phase 2 states

All trade and distribution sub – sectors in states under Phase 2 of the National Recovery Plan (PPN) can resume operations even if the number of fully vaccinated individuals in those states has yet to reach 50% of the adult population.

The Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs (KPDNHEP) Ministry, in a statement, said the states involved are Kelantan, Terengganu, Pahang, Perak, Penang, and Sabah.

Click here to read the article

Published 19 August 2021

News on vaccinations and SOPs in Johor, Selangor, and Labuan

Johor on track to vaccinate 100% of adult population by October, says MB

The Johor government is optimistic that the state can achieve 100% full vaccination of its adult population by October, following an increase in its vaccination rate, said Mentri Besar Datuk Hasni Mohammad.  The meeting attended by the heads of state government departments, police, enforcement agencies, and district officers, was held to discuss issues involving the COVID – 19 pandemic control management.   Hasni also updated the latest vaccination rates following the acquisition of an additional two million doses by the state for this month.

Click here to read the article

With almost all individuals vaccinated, Selangor confident of moving to Phase Two of NRP in Sept, says MB

Selangor is expected to make a transition to Phase Two of the National Recovery Plan (PPN) in September, said Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari.  Amirudin said the projection was based on the latest rate of vaccination in Selangor with the National COVID – 19 Immunisation Task Force (CITF) and MySejahtera which showed the number of recipients with the first dose of vaccine reaching 98%.  He said the rise in the rate was due to Selangor residents getting their vaccination at vaccination centres (PPV) outside of Selangor for example the AstraZeneca vaccine at Kuala Lumpur World Trade Centre (WTC).

Click here to read the article

Labuan Disaster Management Committee prepares SOP for shipping – related sectors

The Labuan Disaster Management Committee has prepared the standard operating procedures (SOPs) for shipping – related sectors to mitigate the spread of COVID – 19 on the duty – free island.  Labuan Health Department director Dr Ismuni Bohari said the SOPs had been submitted to the central National Security Council (NSC) for approval.

Click here to read the article

Published 20 August 2021

Dr Noor Hisham reminds all to continue adhering to COVID – 19 SOPs amid announcement of additional freedoms for fully vaccinated

Health Director – General, Tan Sri Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah, reminded Malaysians to continue adhering to the COVID – 19 SOPs after the announcement of additional social and economic freedoms by caretaker Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin.

In a tweet, Dr Noor Hisham said that the easing of some restrictions is for the good of the economy, not because the country is safe from the COVID – 19 pandemic.

Click here to read the article

Published 20 August 2021

27 COVID – 19 vaccination centres in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor have shut down

The special committee on ensuring access to COVID – 19 vaccines (JKJAV) has revealed that a total of 27 vaccination centres (PPV) including Mega PPVs in the Kuala Lumpur and Selangor have stopped operations.  The remaining PPVs in the Klang Valley will shut down in stages as the majority of residents have already completed their COVID – 19 vaccination.

Click here to read the article

Published 24 August 2021

RM2,000 fine awaits those pretending to be fully vaccinated and abusing privileges, says Penang mayor

Those who are not fully vaccinated but found dining in or entering premises where only the fully vaccinated are allowed to enter can be fined RM2,000 for flouting the SOPs, said Penang Island City Council Mayor Datuk Yew Tung Seang.  He said the city council can use the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988 to take action against those who pretended to be fully vaccinated individuals to dine – in at eateries or to enter retail shops.

Click here to read the article

Published 24 August 2021

Labuan to enter Phase Four of NRP, all business sectors to reopen

Labuan will become the first location in Malaysia to enter Phase Four of the National Recovery Plan due to its high vaccination rate and low COVID – 19 cases, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob announced.  He said the federal territory’s vaccination rate was now 92.4% of its adult population while the previously high demand for intensive care unit (ICU) treatment due to COVID – 19 has been eliminated.

Click here to read the article

Published 24 August 2021

In latest SOP, NSC tells businesses under Phase Three of NRP to ensure good air flow in premises

Businesses that have reopened under Phase Three of the National Recovery Plan (NRP) must now ensure good ventilation indoors to curb the spread of COVID – 19, while keeping to other safety measures.  In an updated set of standard operating procedures (SOPs) released by the National Security Council (NSC) yesterday, businesses like malls, restaurants, laundry shops, vehicle workshops, and hair salons are required to adhere to the guidelines on ventilation and indoor air quality released by the Human Resources Ministry’s Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH).

Click here to read the article

Published 24 August 2021

Selangor making preparations for COVID – 19 booster shots under Selvax, state assembly told

The Selangor government is making preparations to provide the booster dose of the COVID – 19 vaccine under its Selangor Vaccine Programme (Selvax), the state assembly was told today.  State Public Health, Unity, Women, and Family Development Committee chairman Dr Siti Mariah Mahmud said the preparations included to provide the vaccine for those aged 18 and below, which is subjected to approval by (JKJAV).

Click here to read the article

Published 26 August 2021

PM tells factory owners in Malaysia to set up own COVID – 19 vaccination centres at premises

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob today stressed that all factory owners who employ foreign workers should set up their own vaccination centre (PPV) at their premises.  Factories should contribute to economic growth and not be the centre for the spread of the COVID – 19 outbreak, he said in a post on his Facebook page today.

Click here to read the article

Published 29 August 2021

Klang Valley may move to Phase Two as soon as 89.5% of population vaccinated against COVID – 19

There is a possibility that Klang Valley can be moved to the next phase (Phase Two) of the National Recovery Plan (NRP), Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said today.  He said this is likely possible since Klang Valley’s vaccinated numbers have arrived at 89.5%, a number that is close to the herd immunity requirement.

Click here to read the article

Published 29 August 2021

PM wants vaccination rates in six states to reach 50% by end – September

The Ministry of Health (MOH) and the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) have been given time until the end of September to ensure that the vaccination rates within the adult population in six states reach 50%.  Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said the six states recording vaccination rates of below 50% were Perak (46.5%), Terengganu (46.2%), Johor (44.9%), Kedah (43.2%), Kelantan (43.1%), and Sabah (37.1%) up to yesterday.

Click here to read the article

Published 29 August 2021

Budget 2022 will aim to be inclusive, catalyse reforms

Budget 2022 will strive to ensure that no person or business is left behind in receiving government assistance and support and serves as a catalyst towards the implementation of the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP) that will drive economic growth, inclusiveness, and sustainability in the medium term.  In the 2022 Pre – Budget Statement, the Finance Ministry said that overall, Budget 2022 would be drafted with the expectation that the economic situation would recover from the effects of the COVID – 19 pandemic next year.

Click here to read the article

Published 31 August 2021

Health Ministry to focus on five states with high COVID – 19 cases, slow vaccination rates

The government will accelerate COVID – 19 vaccination and medical operations in five states soon, namely Sabah, Johor, Penang, Kedah, and Kelantan that are currently experiencing a spike of COVID – 19 cases, as well as slow vaccination rates, according to newly minted Health Minister, Khairy Jamaluddin.  He said the sense of urgency seen when the Greater Klang Valley Task Force accelerated COVID – 19 vaccination roll – out under Operation Surge Capacity in Selangor and Kuala Lumpur, needs to be replicated in these five states as soon as possible to curb the spread of infections there.

Click here to read the article

Published 1 September 2021

Malaysia examining need for COVID booster shots, says Khairy

Malaysia is studying if it’s necessary to give booster COVID – 19 vaccine shots, as the country grapples with the fast – spreading Delta variant.  An expert committee has been set up to assess the need for a third shot and is expected to give its recommendation by month – end, Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin said at a briefing on Wednesday.

The priority now is to focus on people who haven’t received even their first shot, he said. Only 46% of Malaysians have been fully inoculated as of Aug 31, with states including Sabah and Perak falling behind on coverage. More vaccines will be sent their way, he said.

Click here to read the article

Published 1 September 2021

BKC Phase 1 Payment in stages beginning Sept 6 and 9: Tengku Zafrul

Phase 1 payments for Bantuan Khas COVID – 19 (BKC) will be made in stages from Sept 6, 2021 for B40 recipients and Sept 9, 2021 for M40 recipients, said Finance Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz.  He said the allocation involved a fund of RM3.1 billion, benefiting 4.4 million households, 1.1 million senior citizens who were single or without partner, and 4.5 million single individuals.

Click here to read the article

Published 1 September 2021

15.16 million doses to be distributed to 7 states this month to boost vaccination rates

Some 15.16 million doses of vaccines will be distributed to states lacking in vaccine supply to help boost the vaccination rates there.  Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin said the vaccines would be delivered some time this month.  The states are Sabah (to receive 2.9 million doses), followed by Johor (1.9 million), Perak (1.6 million), Pahang (1.4 million), Kedah (1.3 million), Kelantan (1.2 million), and Penang (one million).

Click here to read the article

Published 2 September 2021

MySejahtera being upgraded to accommodate transition into endemic phase of COVID – 19

A new build of the MySejahtera app that will indicate the COVID – 19 vaccination status and risk level of users of the application in a single display is in the works tonight.  The latest build will make it easier for the people to display their vaccination status and COVID – 19 risk level whenever they visit public places as the country gears towards treating the pandemic as endemic by end of the October.

Click here to read the article

Published 3 September 2021

Moratorium period for driving licence, road tax renewal extended to Dec 31, says Wee

The moratorium period for the renewal of Motor Vehicle Licences (LKM) and Malaysian Driving Licences (LMM) has been extended until Dec 31, said Transport Minister Datuk Seri Wee Ka Siong.  However, he said holders of LKM which had expired must ensure their vehicles have valid insurance coverage and present their e – cover note to the authorities upon request, including for inspection purposes.

The Road Transport Department (RTD) had previously said the renewal period of LKM and LMM would not be extended after Sept 30.  It said renewals can be done at counter services at RTD offices, Pos Malaysia Bhd’s branches, through MyEG Services Sdn Bhd (MyEG), and at the Computerised Vehicle Inspection Centre (Puspakom).  Meanwhile, Wee said the ministry also agreed to allow RTD and Puspakom counters to operate at 100% capacity for walk – in service from Monday (Sept 6).

Click here to read the article

Published 3 September 2021

Individuals with COVID – 19 vaccination from abroad need to get digital cert

Individuals who have completed two doses of COVID – 19 vaccine abroad need to go to the nearest district health office (PKD) for verification and validation to obtain a digital vaccination certificate on MySejahtera application.  Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) Minister, Datuk Seri Dr Adham Baba, said the individual needed to bring documents or certificates as proof that he or she had obtained the vaccine abroad to assess the authenticity of the type of vaccine received.

Click here to read the article

Published 5 September 2021

Only those fully vaccinated allowed to work in Johor manufacturing sector

Only individuals who have completed the 28 – day or 14 – day window after one – dose or two – dose vaccination respectively will be allowed to work in the manufacturing sector in Johor.  State Housing and Local Government Committee Chairman, Ayub Jamil, said the 14 – day period is for those after their two doses of the Pfizer, AstraZeneca, and Sinovac vaccines, while the 28 – day period is after the single dose for Johnson & Johnson and CanSino vaccines.

Click here to read the article

Published 5 September 2021

Price of COVID – 19 self – test kits to be further lowered by year end

The price of COVID – 19 self – test kits will be lowered again by this year end to ensure its affordability for all, said Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs (KPDNHEP) Minister Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi.  Currently, the wholesale price for COVID – 19 self – test kits has been fixed at RM16 a unit and the retail price at RM19.90 a unit and set under the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act 2011 (AKHAP 2011) and Control of Supplies Act 1961, which took effect starting today.

Click here to read the article

Published 5 September 2021

Targeted SOPs to safeguard SMEs against COVID – 19 in Penang

Following the surge in COVID – 19 cases in Penang in recent weeks, with 70% of cases attributed to workplace clusters, the state government will collaborate with industry players for a more targeted approach in implementing the standard operating procedures (SOPs) within the business community.

Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said under this initiative, the Collaborative Research in Engineering, Science and Technology Centre (CREST) will introduce access to the SOPs from CREST member companies and the consolidated COVID – 19 management best practice SOPs as reference with the aim of assisting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the state to operate safely and optimally.

Click here to read the article

Published 6 September 2021

Employers to be supplied with COVID – 19 antigen rapid test kits

The Ministry of Human Resources through the Social Security Organisation (SOCSO) will supply COVID – 19 antigen rapid test kits (RTKs) to employers to facilitate the Recovery Phase COVID – 19 Screening Programme for employees.

Minister Datuk Seri M Saravanan said employers are responsible for coordinating the implementation of the screening process with clinics, hospitals, or trained doctors of their choice.  He added the approach is that employers would be assisted to conduct tests on their employees professionally, while the government and the ministry will monitor the screening process through detailed reports.

Click here to read the article

Published 6 September 2021

Adolescents in Labuan, Klang Valley to receive COVID – 19 vaccine shortly after Sarawak, says Khairy

After Sarawak, COVID – 19 vaccine jabs would be administered to teenagers in Labuan and Klang Valley, said Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin.

“The COVID – 19 Vaccine Supply Access Guarantee Special Committee (JKJAV) has greenlit the commencement of adolescent COVID – 19 vaccination.  Sarawak will begin today starting with 16 – to 17 – year-olds and 12 – to 15 -year olds who are at high risk or with chronic medical conditions.  Labuan and Klang Valley will follow shortly. We will be giving the Pfizer vax,” he tweeted recently.

Click here to read the article

Published 9 September 2021

Walk – in vaccinations in Klang Valley to end after Sept 15

The COVID – 19 walk in vaccination programme in the Klang Valley will end after Sept 15, said Science, Technology ,and Innovation Minister Datuk Seri Dr Adham Baba.  He said the decision was made after taking into account the small percentage of eligible vaccine recipients who have yet to get the COVID – 19 jabs as well as the low presence reported at vaccination centres.  He said starting Sept 16, Klang Valley residents who have yet to get vaccinated can get their COVID – 19 vaccines at selected health clinics which would be announced later.

Click here to read the article

Published 8 September 2021

No one will be left behind during COVID – 19 pandemic

The government has provided and will continue to provide financial, employment or training incentives to ensure that no one is left behind during the COVID – 19 pandemic while, at the same time, make plans to exit the health crisis, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.  He said the commitment is to increase opportunities, provide room for job – seekers to fend for themselves and continue to be productive.

Click here to read the article

Published 8 September 2021

KLCC PPV to officially close from 9 September

The Integrated Vaccine Administering Centre (PPV) at KLCC will be officially closed from 9 September.  ProtectHealth Corporation Sdn Bhd chief executive officer, Datuk Dr Anas Alam Faizli in a statement posted on the Health Ministry’s (MOH) official Facebook page today, said the PPV had administered 730,000 doses of COVID – 19 vaccine since it started operating on June 7.

Click here to read the article

Published 8 September 2021

Threat posed by airborne COVID – 19 virus at workplaces must be taken seriously, say experts

Since the start of the COVID – 19 pandemic in March last year, clusters linked to the workplace have been the chief contributors to the hike in cases in Malaysia.  Local researchers have identified workplaces, especially in enclosed buildings, as having a high risk of being a hive of viral infections, including COVID – 19. This is because studies have shown that SARS-CoV-2 — the virus that causes the deadly COVID – 19 — can spread through the air.

in view of the threat posed by airborne COVID – 19 transmissions, the Ministry of Human Resources, through the Department of Occupational Safety and Health, has developed an Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) guide to mitigate the risk.  The IAQ guide’s objective is to educate the public on improving air ventilation and indoor air quality at places of work, health facilities, homes and public places so as to reduce the risk of airborne COVID – 19 transmissions.

The guide, to be followed in addition to complying with the latest SOPs issued by the National Security Council and other measures to stem the transmission of COVID – 19, recommends increasing the ventilation rate, reducing the number of people allowed into a building, keeping the door or windows open, using portable air purifiers and increasing the inflow of fresh air from outside.

Click here to read the article

Published 9 September 2021

Roadblocks in Putrajaya removed at midnight tonight

Roadblocks in Putrajaya will be ending at midnight tonight after operating for nine months since January 13.  Putrajaya police chief ACP A Asmadi Abdul Aziz said even though the roadblocks have been removed, the people are reminded to continue complying with the standard operating procedure (SOP) to contain the spread of COVID – 19.  He said compliance operation would stepped up with additional personnel to ensure members of the public entering Putrajaya for recreation or domestic tourism adhere to the SOP.

The lifting of roadblocks was announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob on allowing cross district travel in the Klang Valley when Selangor, Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya move to Phase Two of the National Recovery Plan (PPN) from tomorrow.

Click here to read the article

Published 9 September 2021

Singapore new PCR – test Requirement (Travelers Malaysia – Netherlands via Singapore)

As per the latest update from Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS), effective 10 September, all passengers entering or transiting / transferring through Singapore, age 3 and above must have a PCR – test within 48 hours of the flight to Singapore (instead of previous 72 hours).

Passengers travelling on KL839 / 840 (Kuala Lumpur – Amsterdam – Kuala Lumpur) flight which is operated via Singapore, as well as passengers on transit in Singapore, will be subject to this new ruling.

Click here to read the announcement

Published 10 September 2021

SOP monitoring stepped up at public places in KL, Putrajaya

Monitoring of the standard operating procedures (SOPs) at public places is being stepped up following the transition of Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya and Selangor to Phase Two of the National Recovery Plan (PPN) since Sept 10.

Federal Territories Minister Datuk Seri Shahidan Kassim said this would be through closed – circuit TV (CCTV) recordings, public address (PA) system, emergency buttons, and mobilising of the enforcement teams and patrol vehicles in enforcing the rules.

Click here to read the article

Published 16 September 2021

Dispensing of COVID – 19 vaccine booster dose expected to begin in October

The administering of the third or booster dose of COVID – 19 vaccine to groups who are vulnerable to COVID – 19 infection is expected to start in October, said Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin.  He said the groups included senior citizens with comorbidity such as chronic health problems, frontliners, individuals with low immunity, as well as those living and working at long – term care centres.

Click here to read the article

Published 19 September 2021

Raising COVID – 19 fund ceiling, statutory debt limit to help people, businesses

The government’s proposal to raise the ceiling cap for the COVID – 19 Fund and the statutory debt limit is aimed at supporting the people and businesses during the reopening of the economy.  Finance Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz said the proposal will be implemented immediately after being approved by the Parliament.

Click here to read the article

Published 19 September 2021

Malaysia on track to fully vaccinate 100% of adult population by the end of October

Malaysia is on track to fully vaccinate 100% of its adult population by the end of October, said Finance Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz.  In his opening address at The Cooler Earth Sustainability Summit today, he said that complementing this vaccination programme is over RM300 billion worth of assistance still available, which will support the nation’s gross domestic product (GDP) that is expected to grow between 3% and 4% this year.

Click here to read the article

Published 23 September 2021

October set to be important month in move towards endemic phase

October is set to be an important month, as COVID – 19 infections decline, and more activities resume, with the rate of fully vaccinated adults reaching the 90% target, and an increasing number of adolescents also receiving the jab.   Everyone is advised not to become complacent, and continue to be careful and adhere to the standard operating procedures (SOP) set by the government, to prevent the cases from going up again.  According to Public Health Specialist, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) Assoc Prof Dr Malina Osman, despite being given freedom, the community must continue adhering to standard operating procedures (SOPs) and preventive measures, to avoid the possibility of transmission and emergence of new clusters.

The Ministry of Health is targeting for Malaysia to enter a transition phase of ‘living with the COVID – 19 virus’ before moving into the endemic phase, with the number of cases being within the expected range and not burdening public health facilities, depending on the strength and duration of resistance derived from vaccinations and natural immunity.

Among the indicators for the country moving into the endemic phase is that the critical cases rate per 100,000 of the population should be 0.5, whereby the rate as of Sept 25 was 1.9.  Apart from that, hospital admission rates for categories three to five should be at 5% of the total, where the percentage as of Sept 25 was 10%, while non – Intensive Care Unit (ICU) hospital bed utilisation should be less than 30%, and those in ICUs should be below 20%.

For the public, the endemic phase means they need to continue to comply with the revised and simplified SOPs, be responsible and ensure there is proper access to health care at all times.

Click here to read the article

Published 3 October 2021

Govt looking at providing start – up capital assistance for MSMEs

The government plans to assist the micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by providing them capital to restart their business, following the effects of the COVID – 19 pandemic.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said it is currently studying the mechanism, including whether to require no repayment or to offer a moratorium on principal or interest payments.

Click here to read the article

Published 3 October 2021

Time for interstate travel drawing closer, says PM Ismail Sabri

Interstate travel which Malaysians have been long awaiting is in sight, following the increase in the COVID – 19 vaccination rate of the adult population in the country.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said he understood the feelings of the people who wanted to return to their hometowns to visit their parents and that the good news would be announced once the vaccination rate reached 90% for adults.

Click here to read the article

Published 3 October 2021

Govt to implement policies encouraging ‘attitudes and behaviours’ necessary for endemic phase

The Malaysian government will continue to implement policies encouraging attitudes and behaviours necessary for an endemic scenario, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said.

In his opening speech at the Khazanah Megatrends Forum 2021, Ismail Sabri said Malaysians must be prepared to accept the reality of no longer being able to return to the carefree normality of the past.

Click here to read the article

Published 4 October 2021

Third dose of COVID – 19 vaccine to health frontliners, elderly by this month

The Ministry of Health (MoH) is expected to start administering the third dose of COVID – 19 vaccine to selected groups such as frontliners, the immunocompromised and elderly with comorbidities beginning this month, according to Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin.

In a written Parliamentary response to a question from Beaufort member of Parliament Datuk Hajah Azizah Mohd Dun, Khairy shared that as of Oct 2, 87.2% of adult population in Malaysia has been fully vaccinated while 94.3% of adult population has received at least one dose of the COVID – 19 vaccine.

Meanwhile, he also highlighted that MoH has already outlined a few measures in addressing the emergence of new COVID – 19 variants in the country, one of them includes control at the international entrance.

Click here to read the article

Published 4 October 2021

Digital exemption certificates for those unable to receive COVID – 19 vaccines due to medical conditions

Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin said on Monday individuals unable to be vaccinated against COVID – 19 due to medical conditions can obtain their digital exemption certificates through the MySejahtera app after their medical conditions have been validated by medical specialists in private and government hospitals.

Speaking at the Parliament, Khairy said a medical specialist will, however, first advise an individual with a medical condition to receive other types of COVID – 19 vaccines if the person is found to be allergic to a particular COVID – 19 vaccine.

Click here to read the article

Published 4 October 2021

Govt to allow mixing of COVID – 19 vaccine for booster shots; social gatherings the last sector to re – open

The government will allow the use of heterologous vaccination methods or mixed use of different COVID – 19 vaccines for the booster shots beginning this month, according to Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin. 

He said the agreement was reached through a joint evaluation of the COVID – 19 Vaccine Supply Access Guarantee Special Committee (JKJAV) last week.

Click here to read the article

Published 4 October 2021

Johor to enter Phase Three, Pahang to Phase Four of National Recovery Plan from Oct 8

Johor will move to Phase Three of the National Recovery Plan (PPN) while Pahang will move to Phase Four effective October 8, Senior Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein said.

In a statement, he said the decision was reached at the COVID – 19 Pandemic Management Special Committee meeting today.

Click here to read the article

Published 6 October 2021

Interstate screening test not compulsory but encouraged

The COVID – 19 self – screening test is not compulsory for interstate travel which comes into effect tomorrow, nonetheless it is encouraged for the safety of family members, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

He said carrying out self – test is part of the responsibility of an individual to protect family members as well as those in risk groups.

“This is especially for those returning to their home villages, screening with PCR or RTK is not compulsory but encouraged to ensure the family members in the village are safe, so it is better we check ourselves first.

Click here to read the article

Published 10 October 2021

IGP: Checks to continue to ensure SOP compliance

Although interstate travel restrictions will be lifted tomorrow, police will continue conducting checks to ensure the public complies with the standard operating procedures (SOPs) of the COVID – 19 pandemic rules and regulations.

Inspector – General of Police Datuk Seri Acryl Sani Abdullah Sani said following the announcement by the government to allow travel for those fully vaccinated, all police checkpoints at state borders will be removed.

Click here to read the article

Published 10 October 2021

Transport minister says public transport operators must ensure passengers fully vaccinated

All public transport operators in land, air and maritime sectors are required to ensure their passengers are fully vaccinated as required in the standard operating procedure (SOP) for interstate travel, said Transport Minister Datuk Seri Wee Ka Siong.

“All operators must ensure that all passengers or public transport users show their vaccination certificate to prove that they have been fully vaccinated,” he said in a statement today.

Following the lifting of the interstate travel restriction as announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob yesterday, Wee said the operators were reminded to avoid complacency and always adhere to the SOP set by the government under the National Recovery Plan (PPN).

Click here to read the article

Published 11 October 2021

MoH to start giving booster doses to senior citizens, frontliners on voluntary basis

The Ministry of Health (MoH) on Wednesday said it will start giving out booster doses to senior citizens aged 60 years and above as well as frontline members who received a complete dose at least six months ago.  Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin said eligible individuals will be notified through the MySejahtera application, while notification will be made via short message service (SMS) or phone calls by vaccination centres (PPV) for individuals who do not have the MySejahtera application.

Click here to read the article

Published 13 October 2021

Interstate travel: Random checks to be continued to ensure SOP compliance, says Hishammuddin

The police through its Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) monitoring team will continue to monitor interstate movements including conducting random inspections on major roads, as well as highways on weekends, public holidays and festivals.

Senior Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein said the monitoring was necessary as the allowing of interstate travel did not mean the authorities would become lax, but instead ensure that the SOPs were continued to be complied with.

Click here to read the article

Published 13 October 2021

Construction sector no longer need CIMS approval to operate

All construction sector players no longer need to apply for approval to operate through the COVID – 19 Intelligent Management System (CIMS) 3.0 following the interstate travel permission given to fully vaccinated individuals.  Senior Works Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, however, said the operations in the construction sector were still subject to the current standard operating procedures (SOPs) of the National Recovery Plan (PPN).

Click here to read the article

Published 13 October 2021

Singapore is extending its vaccinated travel lane scheme to eight more countries

Singapore is extending its vaccinated travel lane scheme to eight more countries, allowing those who are fully vaccinated against COVID – 19 to enter Singapore without having to serve quarantine. From Oct 19, fully vaccinated travellers from Canada, Denmark, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States will be able to enter Singapore under this arrangement, the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) announced on Saturday (Oct 9).

When asked if Singapore would consider easing border restrictions with Johor given the increasing rate of vaccinations across the Causeway, co – chair of the COVID – 19 task force Lawrence Wong said he had “no doubt” that Malaysia’s status would be upgraded as the COVID – 19 situation in the country improves. As for Johor, Wong explained that the “order of risk” is quite different from air travel given the large number of people who travelled between Singapore and Johor via the land crossing before the pandemic. He added that the Singapore authorities are in discussions with their Malaysian counterparts on both land and air travel between the two countries.

Click here to read the article

Published 14 October 2021

Klang Valley, Melaka to move to Phase Four from Oct 18

The Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya, Selangor, as well as Melaka will move from Phase Three to Phase Four of the National Recovery Plan (PPN) from Monday (Oct 18).

Kelantan, Perak, Penang, Sabah, and Kedah, meanwhile, will transition from Phase Two to Phase Three of the PPN from Oct 18 as well.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said in a statement that the matter was decided at the meeting of the Special Committee on COVID – 19 Pandemic Management, which he chaired on Friday.

Click here to read the article

Published 15 October 2021

Malaysia halves quarantine period for fully vaxxed incoming travellers as it relaxes a slew of SOPs

Malaysia has decided to halve the quarantine period for fully vaccinated travellers returning or coming to Malaysia from 14 days to seven, starting next Monday (Oct 18).  At the same time, the government will shorten the required close contact isolation period for the fully vaccinated from 10 days to seven days.  In contrast, unvaccinated or partially vaccinated travellers will face a 10 – day quarantine upon entry into Malaysia, Prime Minister Ismail Sabri announced in a statement.

These relaxations were among the easing of a slew of standard operating procedures (SOPs) that the premier announced, after the coronavirus’ infectious rate or R – naught dropped below 1.0 to 0.86, as the country recorded fewer than 10,000 new daily infections for the past two weeks.

Below are the other relaxations of the SOPs that the premier announced:

• Rest and service (R&R) areas at all highways nationwide will be allowed to operate round the clock from Saturday.
• e – hailing vehicles will also be allowed, starting Saturday, to resume carrying passengers based on the vehicles’ seating capacity for all phases of the NRP
• Cyber cafes and centres will be allowed, starting Sunday, to operate at 80% capacity for Phase Three States, and at 100% capacity for Phase Four States.
• Face – to – face meeting, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions (MICE) are allowed in Phase Three States for the fully vaccinated from Monday, on condition they perform pre – event COVID – 19 tests, observe physical distancing, wear face masks, and with the venue not more than half – filled.

Click here to read the article

Published 15 October 2021

Fully vaccinated individuals travelling to Sarawak need not apply via EnterSarawak from Oct 18

Individuals from the peninsula, Sabah, and Labuan who have been fully vaccinated against COVID – 19 will no longer need to apply via EnterSarawak to travel to the state effective Oct 18, said the Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC).

It said in a statement today that individuals wanting to enter Sarawak only need to fill in the e – Health Declaration Form (eHDF), are not required to undergo COVID – 19 screening, must show proof of being fully vaccinated and must have ‘Low Risk’ or No Symptom Casual Contact’ status only in the MySejahtera application.

Click here to read the article

Published 16 October 2021

PERKESO is supplying RTK test kits for companies if they need to test their employees

In early September, it was announced that employers would be supplied with COVID – 19 antigen rapid test kits.  The Human Resource Ministry through the Social Security Organisation (SOCSO) would supply COVID – 19 Antigen Rapid Test Kits (RTK) to employers to facilitate the Recovery Phase COVID – 19 Screening Programme on employees.  Its Minister, Datuk Seri M Saravanan, said the employers are responsible for coordinating the implementation of the screening process with clinics, hospitals or trained doctors of their choice.  He added the approach is that the employers would be assisted to conduct tests on their employees professionally, while the government and ministry will monitor the screening process through detailed reports.

Click here to read the article.

As a follow up, MITI has since announced that PERKESO is supplying RTK test kits for companies if they need to test their employees.  This is for free, depending on the number of workers registered under SOCSO.

Published 21 October 2021

100k AstraZeneca jab digital certs contain errors, says Khairy

Some 100,000 individuals who received AstraZeneca vaccine inoculations will have to download their digital certificates again after Oct 30.  On Oct 21, the Ministry of Health (MoH) said there were “technical errors” related to vaccine manufacturer data on the MySejahtera digital COVID – 19 vaccination certificate, affecting nearly 100,000 AstraZeneca recipients.

Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin during a media briefing said mismatched vaccine information between the digital vaccination certificate and lot release certificates by the National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (NPRA) were due to data overlaps between vaccine shipments that use the Global Trade International Number (GTIN) and those listed in the Vaccine Management System (VMS).

He said recipients of AstraZeneca vaccine batch No ABX6083 need to download their digital certificates again.

Click here to read the article

Published 25 October 2021

COVID – 19 self – test kits now available for as low as RM6.90

The COVID – 19 self – test kit is available for as low as RM6.90 a unit, said Minister of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi.  He said this followed the move to expand the sale of the test kit to supermarkets, convenience store networks and petrol stations in stages.

Click here to read the article

Published 2 November 2021

Five states to enter phase four of PPN on Monday (8 Nov)

Five states namely Perlis, Perak, Penang, Sabah and Kedah will move from Phase Three to Phase Four of the National Recovery Plan (PPN) effective Nov 8, said Senior Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein. 

In a statement on the PPN transition phase and relaxation of standard operating procedures (SOPs), he said the Special Meeting on the COVID – 19 Pandemic Management today agreed that the five states move to phase four after considering the current risk assessment conducted by the Health Ministry (MOH) and the National Security Council (MKN).

Click here to read the article
Click here to read the media statement in BM
Click here to read the media statement in English (Unofficial Translation)

Published 5 November 2021

Take the test, not the risk

While most restrictions to curb the spread of COVID – 19 have been eased, Malaysia is not out of the woods yet.  With more people returning to workplaces, the risk of being infected is heightened and close contact with a colleague who could have been infected should not be taken lightly.

Public health expert Dr Rusli Nordin said once a person has been in close contact with someone who is suspected to be infected, he should go for an antigen test (RTK – Ag) test.

“If the results are negative, the test should be repeated a week later. If the RTK – Ag test returns positive, the person should have a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test at once,” he said.

“Even if the PCR test is negative, the person is not in the clear yet. He should repeat the test after a week,” said Rusli.

Click here to read the article

Published 8 November 2021

Malaysia 10th most vaccinated nation against COVID – 19

Malaysia has the 10th highest rate of complete COVID – 19 vaccination globally, with some 77% of its total population fully inoculated.

Citing a New York Times (NYT) tracker on Monday (Nov 8), CodeBlue, which reports issues and policies related to healthcare in Malaysia and around the world, said about 80% of Malaysia’s total population had been vaccinated with at least one dose.

Nine countries with the highest percentage of full COVID – 19 vaccination were UAE (89%), Portugal (87%), Malta (85%), Singapore (82%), Chile (81%), Cambodia (80%), Spain (79%), Qatar (78%), and Iceland (77%).

Click here to read the article

Published 9 November 2021

Malaysia to reopen to international visitors by Jan 1

Malaysia will reopen its borders to international visitors by Jan 1 at the latest, a government advisory council said on Thursday (Nov 11), as the country seeks to revive its ailing tourism sector.  The Southeast Asian country has gradually reopened its economy in recent weeks as coronavirus infection rates have slowed amid a ramped – up vaccination program.

Click here to read the article

Published 11 November 2021

Breathalysers, routine COVID – 19 testing for high – risk sectors under MOH review

The Ministry of Health (MOH) plans to deploy breathalysers and implement routine testing in sectors and activities viewed as high – risk for COVID – 19.

Citing Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin as saying to the health, science and innovation special select parliament committee in a meeting on Sept 14, CodeBlue, which reports issues and policies related to healthcare in Malaysia and around the world, said the government would consider using breathalysers at several gateways, for social events, and at schools.

In a report on Wednesday (Nov 10), it added that Khairy said this during a discussion with the committee on the effectiveness of various test kits and tools used to detect COVID – 19 in individuals.

Click here to read the article

Published 11 November 2021

Land VTL between Singapore and Malaysia to be launched in few weeks’ time, says Singapore taskforce

A land Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL) with Malaysia is expected to be launched in a few weeks’ time, said the Singapore Multi – ministry Taskforce on COVID – 19.

“Our discussions with Malaysia on a VTL – like arrangement for our land links has progressed well,” Co – Chair Gan Kim Yong said at a virtual press conference here today.

“We are working to launch this soon hopefully in a few weeks’ time,” Gan, who is also the republic’s Minister for Trade and Industry, added.

Click here to read the article

Published 15 November 2021

Land VTL via Causeway, Second Link to open along with air VTL on Nov 29

Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Hasni Mohammad confirmed on Thursday that the Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL) via the Causeway and Second Link will be opened simultaneously with the VTL between Changi Airport and Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) on Nov 29.

Click here to read the article

Published 19 November 2021

Long COVID: A challenge for Malaysian employers

International SOS, one of the world’s leading health and security companies, has identified long COVID as a challenge for businesses in Malaysia and around the world, the CodeBlue health news portal reported.

Globally, increasing cases of long COVID are now being documented, as many people report symptoms related to COVID – 19 months after infection, the report said, noting that International SOS is being increasingly called on by organisations to help them effectively manage this emerging and concerning phenomenon.

Click here to read the article

Published 22 November 2021

VTL – land begins Nov 29, daily quota not exceeding 1,500 travellers

The Vaccinated Travel Lane-Land (VTL – Land) between Malaysia and Singapore, which will be launched on Nov 29, will be limited to only bus transportation with a daily quota not exceeding 1,500 travellers at the initial stage.  According to the statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office today, other modes of land transportation will be included in stages with the daily quota of travellers to be increased on weekly basis.

Click here to read the article

Published 24 November 2021

Booster shot registration open for all adults aged 18 and above

The COVID – 19 Immunisation Task Force (CITF) has opened registrations for the COVID – 19 booster shot for all adults aged 18 and above.  Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin in a statement today said the Technical Working Group under the COVID – 19 Immunisation Task Force Booster (CITF – B) has come up with the recommendation that booster shots be administered to all adults who have been inoculated with primary vaccine, either Astra Zeneca, Pfizer, or Sinovac.

He said the government has decided to open up the booster shot registration not only for those above 40 years old but to all adults who have completed their two primary vaccine shots.

Click here to read the article

Published 25 November 2021

Malaysia, Singapore reopen busy land border for vaccinated travellers

Singapore and Malaysia re-opened one of the world’s busiest land borders on Monday, allowing vaccinated travellers to make the crossing after nearly two years of closure due to the COVID – 19 pandemic.  Under the new arrangement, up to 1,440 travellers from each side can travel if they hold citizenship, permanent residency or long – term visas in the destination country, without undergoing quarantine, according to guidelines published by the Singapore government.

Travellers must test negative for COVID – 19 before departure, and Malaysia also requires travellers to pass on – arrival COVID – 19 test. Singapore on Sunday followed suit by requiring on – arrival test due to concerns over the new COVID – 19 variant Omicron. 

A vaccinated air travel lane between the two countries also started on Monday.

Click here to read the article

For more information on the land VTL between Singapore and Malaysia, please click here.
For more information on the air VTL between Singapore and Malaysia, please click here.

Published 29 November 2021

COVID – 19: MOH closely monitoring WHO, other countries on Omicron variant

The Health Ministry (MOH) is constantly monitoring reports from the World Health Organisation (WHO), as well as other countries on the new COVID – 19 B.1.1.529 variant, now named Omicron.  Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin said continuous tracking of developments would help the ministry impose travel restrictions to any country, if necessary.

Click here to read the article

Published 29 November 2021

Malaysia – Singapore Land VTL to be extended to citizens of both countries from Dec 20

The Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) has announced that all categories of travelers who are Malaysian and Singaporean citizens will be able to enter Singapore and Malaysia, respectively, via the land vaccinated travel lane (VTL – Land) effective Dec 20, 2021, due to increased public demand.

Holders of Malaysian Permanent Resident status can continue to enter Malaysia via VTL (Land).  However, travelers are still required to be fully vaccinated and unvaccinated children below the age of 12 must be accompanied by vaccinated parents or guardians.

Click here to read the article
Click here to read the press release in English

Published 14 December 2021

Appointments for booster dose sent via SMS, MySejahtera, says Health DG

Appointments for COVID – 19 vaccine booster jabs will be conveyed through short message service (SMS) or the MySejahtera application to further expedite the administration of the vaccine, said Health Director – General Tan Sri Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah.

Dr Noor Hisham, in a statement on Wednesday (Dec 15), reminded the people to always check the notification on their handphones so as not to miss the appointment given and to state whether they agree to receive the booster dose or not.

Click here to read the article

Published 15 December 2021

Govt bans large – scale New Year events for fear of Omicron spread

The government has barred large-scale New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day celebrations as a precaution against the spread of the Omicron variant, Free Malaysia Today reports.  Health minister Khairy Jamaluddin said small, private gatherings to celebrate Christmas or New Year are allowed only if those attending have carried out self – tests beforehand.

Click here to read the article

Published 16 December 2021

Sinovac senior recipients must get boosters by Feb

Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin said that individuals above 60 years of age and those who have received Sinovac as their initial vaccine are required to get their booster shot before February next year.  He explained that the decision was made after considering the arrival of the Omicron COVID – 19 variant of concern as well as guidance from the World Health Organisation (WHO).

Click here to read the article

Published 16 December 2021

Land VTL: Govt plans to increase daily quota to 2,100 travellers each way

The government plans to increase the daily quota for Malaysian and Singapore citizens travelling through the vaccinated travel lane (VTL – land) facility to 2,100 people each way according to latest developments of the COVID – 19 situation.

Senior Minister and International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali said so far, no quarantine was required due to the high vaccination rates in both countries.  However, he said the government is constantly monitoring the current health situation, adding that the Ministry of Health would provide appropriate advice if there are any indications related to COVID – 19.

Click here to read the article

Published 16 December 2021

New rules for those arriving from the UK

The Health Ministry has introduced new rules against travellers from the United Kingdom (UK) to prevent the highly transmissible Omicron variant.

Starting tomorrow (17 Dec), travellers from the UK would need to do daily self – tests during their quarantine period and all results be it positive, negative or invalid must be reported on MySejahtera.  Other control and prevention measures imposed on travellers from the UK are they must undergo RT – PCR test two days before departure and another RT – PCR test upon arrival.

Click here to read the article

Published 16 December 2021

Sarawakians returning into the state from overseas via the peninsula to be quarantined at KLIA1, KLIA2 first

Sarawakians together with their spouses and family travelling back into the state from abroad through the peninsula will be quarantined at the first point of entry, either at the KLIA1 or KLIA2 starting today.

SDMC in a statement today said the quarantine centres there will be managed by the Sarawak State Liaison Office, and any reservations for quarantine places are to be made to the Liaison Office via website https://sarawakdisastermc.com/eshotel (Quarantine Centre in Peninsular Malaysia) within seven to 10 working days before entering Malaysia.

For non – Sarawakians including long term pass holders who want to travel into Sarawak via the Peninsular Malaysia, they are also required to be quarantined at KLIA1 or KLIA2, which would be managed by the Ministry of Health. 

Click here to read the article

Published 23 December 2021

Malaysia – Singapore VTL freeze: Some Malaysians surprised and annoyed as travel plans stall, uncertain of resumption after Jan 20

Singapore and Malaysia announced that they are suspending the quarantine-free travel scheme — less than a month after it started for land crossings between both countries.

The freeze on new bus and flight ticket sales will start from December 23 until Jan 20 next year, though those who already have tickets are still allowed to travel under the quarantine – free scheme, Singapore’s COVID – 19 task force said in the morning.

Click here to read the article

Click here for the press release from the MoH in BM
Click here for the press release from the MoH in English (Unofficial Translation)

Published 23 December 2021

Govt introduces MySJ Trace feature for COVID – 19 close contacts tracing

The government has introduced the MySejahtera Trace (MySJTrace) feature in the MySejahtera application to detect close contacts of positive COVID – 19 cases using Bluetooth technology.

A joint statement issued by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) and the Ministry of Health (MoH) said MySJ Trace is available from Saturday (Dec 25), and the public is also advised to update their MySejahtera application.

Click here to read the article

Published 27 December 2021

Malaysia lifts African travel ban, cuts booster wait amid Omicron fears

Malaysia has lifted a travel ban on eight southern African countries that had been among the first to report the Omicron variant of the coronvirus, citing the greater spread of the variant worldwide, its health minister said today.

Meanwhile, authorities would cut the wait time for booster vaccine doses amid concerns over the spread of Omicron, Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin told reporters.  Authorities have detected 306 suspected Omicron cases out of 366 samples from travellers who had tested positive for COVID – 19 upon arrival between December 21 and 25, he said.

Click here to read the article

Published 28 December 2021

On 17 March, there was an emergency meeting at the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) to discuss this with Chambers and Business Associations.  The meeting was in turn chaired by YB Minister, Secretary General and Deputy Secretary General (Industrial Development) and also attended by all major MITI agencies such as the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) and the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade).

Decisions on the order are made by the National Security Council (NSC).  This public health order supersedes the industrial relation order.  Legal action can be taken against companies or persons failing to comply.    Government operations will also be minimized to essential services (which are focused on finances and ICT, the latter to maintain websites with all relevant updates and to answer questions).

Port operations will continue, but minimized.  Import and Export matters are still being discussed.  For non compliance to your contracts, the government states that this is beyond control, force majeure is in place.
Human Resource Ministry will be discussing with NSC the implications for salary payments etc.  For now, the input is that any staff payments would be subject to terms & conditions of the employment agreement.

For health matters, only the Ministry of Health (MoH) will issue statements.
For non – health matters, only the National Security Council (NSC) will issue statements.

Published 17 March

Please click here for the official Federal Government gazette Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases (Measures within the Infected Local Areas) Regulations 2020.  This document is in Bahasa Malaysia and English & also includes the Schedule Essential Services.

We have been advised that an updated version might be published today which includes the manufacturing exceptions, but at this moment find it opportune to share the current version with you because it gives all important information on the government’s decision, including Offence.

Published 18 March

Products

1. Food and beverage items including imported items
   • Rice
   • Sugar
   • Vegetable and animal oils and fats
   • Flour and All Grain Mill Products
   • Bread
   • Water
   • Dairy products – milk, infant formula
   • Condiments and Spices
   • Dry food
   • Coffee and tea
   • Canned food
   • Meat
   • Chicken
   • Animal feed
   • Processing of fruits and vegetable
2. Agriculture and fisheries including imports
   • Fish and Seafood
   • Fruits
   • Vegetable
3. Household products
   • Detergents
   • Disinfectants
   • Sanitisers
   • Personal care items
   • Toilet paper and tissue paper
4. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including Fire Safety Equipment and Medical Attire including face mask, rubber gloves.
5. Pharmaceutical – all chemicals and drugs production
6. Packaging materials and printing including ink
7. Medical and surgical devices
8. Parts for medical devices eg. parts for ventilators

Published 18 March 2020

Source: MIDA

Products

1. Oil & Gas
2. Petrochemicals
   • PTA & PET Resins
   • Polyester fibres & filaments
   • Polypropylene & polyethylene
   • ABS & MABS resins
   • Maleic Anhydride
   • PVC Paste resin
   • Expanded EPE
   • Impact modifiers & processing aids
   • Styrene Monomer
   • Styrene Butadiene Latex
   • Polystyrene
3. Chemical and Chemical Products – Fertiliser and Pesticide
4. Electrical & Electronics (E&E) including semiconductors

Published 18 March 2020

Source: MIDA

Application for Factory Operations during MCO is now available on MITI website.
In case the link is down, click here to download the MITI Request Form to operate during MCO.
This form also includes the Request Form to Maintain Machineries at Warm Idle during MCO.

For further inquiries regarding this application, kindly email to .

Published 19 March 2020

Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM) has published an extensive update for their members, please click here to read the update.  Inclusive of info on:
– Any exemption is not automatic, an overview of compulsory conditions is provided;
– Request Form to Maintain Machineries at Warm Idle During Movement Control Order Period;
– Custom’s Advisory;
– Certificate of Origin Endorsement Services.

Published 19 March 2020

Please click here for COVID – 19 Pandemic: Frequently Asked Questions on Employment *Updates* from MDBC member SKRINE.

Originally published 20 March but is constantly updated.

On Monday, 23 March, the prime minister announced several initiatives to help alleviate the people’s burden in facing the Covid – 19 pandemic.  Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin said these initiatives were part of a more comprehensive Economic Stimulus Package and People’s Aid to be announced on March 30.
Click here for more details.

Main initiatives announced:

• KWSP / Employee Provident Fund (EPF): Reduction in deduction, Application to withdraw from Account 2: RM 500 / mth for up to 12 months for those who are below 55 years old. To support daily necessities of food and utilities.
• RM 500 million to the Ministry of Health (MOH) from the central government to support procurement of ventilators, PPE, lab facilities, and other critical essentials. RM 100 million to MOH for 2,000 contracted workers, mainly nurses.
• RM 130 million to state governments to help with small business owners, victims, and families as well as civil servants involved in assisting with the Covid – 19 pandemic.
• Defer payments for PTPTN loan (education loan) for 3 – 6 months up to 21 September.

Official EAC Statement – in Bahasa Malaysia: Please click here.
EAC Statement – in English (unverified): Please click here.

MDBC received a complete overview of the MCO advice given by banks with regard to banking moratorium, both for retail as well as corporate banking customers.  Please click here for this overview and check with your bank for further details.

KPMG Highlights BNM Measures – Responding to COVID – 19

Please click here to read the report.

Published 26 March 2020

Economic Stimulus Package: Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin has just unveiled an economic stimulus package known as package prihatin or caring package valued at RM 250 bil that will benefit all Malaysians. 
Please click here to read highlights on the stimulus package in English.
Please click here for the copy of the Prime Minister’s speech in BM.

Published 27 March 2020

Port Klang Authority: Port Klang Authority to waive storage and removal charges for non – essential goods stuck at port

Published 27 March 2020

The PRIHATIN Package aims to protect the welfare of the people, support businesses including Small and Medium Enterprises as well as strengthen the country’s economy to weather the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

KPMG is pleased to provide a summary of the proposed key tax measures for your attention.

Please click here for the KPMG PRIHATIN Tax Highlights.

The information contained herein is of a general nature and is not intended to address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Although we endeavor to provide accurate and timely information, there can be no guarantee that such information is accurate as of the date it is received or that it will continue to be accurate in the future. No one should act on such information without appropriate professional advice after a thorough examination of the particular situation.

Published 27 March 2020

KPMG: Impact of COVID – 19 when measuring ECL

Please click here to view the report.

Published 27 March 2020

KPMG: Impact of COVID – 19 on transfer pricing arrangements

To help you understand your exposure to COVID – 19, and more importantly, position your business to be resilient in the face of this and the next global threat, please review timely insights from KPMG business leaders.  Please click here to read the report.

Published, 30 March 2020

MCO Phase 2 (1 – 14 April)

Published 31 March 2020

KPMG COVID – 19 Economic Impacts

As COVID – 19 (coronavirus) spreads through the U.S. and global economy, firms and households are being significantly impacted. The economic impact is a supply shock, a demand shock and a shock to financial markets the ramifications of which will be acute in the near – term. There is an inverse relationship between flattening the caseload curve and the economic cost. Flattening the caseload curve is critical but it comes with an economic cost if other measures are not also taken. Even with substantial government assistance “L” shaped downturns may be unavoidable as corporate debt levels are simply too high in many sectors to avoid a day of reckoning.

KPMG’s Office of the Chief Economist is continuously monitoring key developments in this unprecedented situation and refinements to the economic model occur daily. To learn about their current scenario analysis, including deep background on the underlying cause and effect dynamics, please download their latest Covid – 19 Economic Impacts: Beware the Ides of March report.

Due to the rapidly evolving nature of this situation, KPMG updates this analysis frequently. Please check here often for their latest report.

Published 31 March 2020

KPMG: Specific Indirect Tax Measures due to COVID – 19

As the COVID – 19 outbreak continues, various steps have been taken by the Malaysian Government in managing the impact it brings to the people and economy.   KPMG has prepared a summary of the Specific Indirect Tax measures introduced by the Government due to the impact of COVID – 19.  A copy of the Summary can be accessed here.  

The Summary will be updated from time to time as we anticipate more initiatives to be announced by the Government, in view of the COVID – 19 outbreak coupled with the Movement Control Order. 

The information contained herein is of a general nature and is not intended to address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Although we endeavor to provide accurate and timely information, there can be no guarantee that such information is accurate as of the date it is received or that it will continue to be accurate in the future. No one should act on such information without appropriate professional advice after a thorough examination of the particular situation.

Published 31 March 2020

Skrine: Effect of the MCO on court proceedings

The Movement Control Order (MCO) that has been implemented throughout Malaysia from 18 March 2020 to 14 April 2020 has disrupted activities in nearly all aspects of the lives of Malaysians. Among others, schools and businesses that provide non-essential services have ground to a halt or nearly so.

How has the MCO affected the administration of justice? Click here for a short write up which summarises the effect of MCO on court proceedings in Malaysia at the time of writing.

Published 3 April 2020

KPMG: Additional PRIHATIN Package Highlights

Overall, the additional PRIHATIN Package provides a clear message that the Government is focused on easing the financial burden of SMEs and continuing to secure the jobs of the employees of such SMEs, which represent over two thirds of the total number of jobs in the country.  

Click here to read the highlights of the proposed key measures that have been announced.

Published 7 April 2020

MANUFACTURERS AND SUPPLIERS, MAKE YOURSELF HEARD!

With the latest information following a meeting at Ministry of International Trade & Industry this morning, attended by most Malaysian industry and sector associations, we have been advised that the authorities are investigating the opportunity of opening up for certain non – essential industries to operate (in phases, during and post MCO). MITI is therefore asking for information to ascertain the entire supply chain environment. Essential or non – essential, Approved or Pending or rejected members, are all asked to provide details of their suppliers.

Guidelines, how you fill up the form:
• Click on the link and download the excel sheet.
Save the document under a new name which starts with your own company name.
• Main Customer column = your company name
• Name of Company column = your supplier’s name

Complete, save and return to latest by Friday 10 April 10:00 hrs.
Due to time constraints, MDBC will not have the opportunity to communicate further with you on this list, we will only compile what you send to us, and submit before the deadline given to us. MDBC is not an Industry Association, but if there is any chance of getting our members (and your local suppliers!) included then that would be an important step! No promises, but we are willing to invest considerable time in this to give it our best try.

Published 9 April 2020

SME Corp Malaysia: Relief Measures for SMEs Affected by COVID – 19 Contact

Please click here for the info.

Published 9 April 2020

KPMG: Robust Cash Management Helps in Times of Crisis

Having a tight grip on cash management will provide companies with valuable breathing space in times of crisis, such as ripple effects of COVID – 19 pandemic, said KPMG Malaysia managing partner Datuk Johan Idris.

Please click here to read the article.

Published 13 April 2020

Permission for Company Human Resource / Finance Personnel to Return to Workplace to Process Payroll on either April 30, 2020 OR May 2, 2020

The Ministry of Human Resources has announced via their social media platforms that the Government has agreed for Human Resource / Finance personnel (max. 2 staff) to be allowed entry to the workplace for payroll processing. This is particularly for companies that are unable to process payroll remotely and those not granted approval to resume operations.

Please click here to read it on MoHR social media and to check the conditions.

Published 29 April 2020

MCO Phase 4: Additional person for errands and other updates

Phase Four of the movement control order will see more rules being relaxed on top of allowing two persons to go out on errands and travel beyond 10km for essentials.  Hinting this, Senior Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said the two should be from the same family and that the errands meant food, medicine and daily essentials.  People are now allowed to travel out of their 10km radius limit for the same purpose.

Please click here to read the article.

Published 30 April 2020

Almost all economic sectors, business activities can resume ops under conditional MCO starting May 4

Almost all economic sectors and business activities will be allowed to resume business, subject to conditions and standard operating procedure, starting May 4, announces the Prime Minister.  Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin said the decision is made following advice from the Health Ministry and after lengthy discussions during the Economic Action Council, National Security Council and Cabinet Meeting.

Please click here to read the article.

Published 1 May 2020

New CMCO Rules

On 3 May, the Prime Minister announced that the MCO would be relaxed to a Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO).  The Government announced new regulations for this period.  To read a summary of the new regulations, please click here.

Published 5 May 2020

Employers encouraged to get workers tested for COVID – 19

The Human Resource Ministry is encouraging all employers, especially those operating in the COVID – 19 red and yellow zones, to ensure their workers undergo COVID – 19 screenings.

Please click here to read the article.

Published 4 May 2020

No conditional MCO for nine states

Nine states are not following or fully complying with the Federal Government’s move to ease conditions and let businesses resume with set guidelines under the conditional movement control order (MCO) starting today.   Kedah, Sabah, Pahang, Penang, Kelantan and Sarawak have decided not to follow the move while Selangor, Perak and Negri Sembilan said it would limit the number of businesses allowed to resume operations and restrict dine-ins at restaurants and sports and recreational activities.

Please click here to read the article.

Published 4 May 2020

Inter – state travel forms available on PDRM Facebook, Twitter

Members of the public can get the inter – state travel forms through the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) Facebook page and Twitter from today, said Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department (CID) director Datuk Huzir Mohamed.

Please click here for PDRM on Facebook
Please click here for PDRM on Twitter.

Please click here to read the article.

Published 4 May 2020

Gerak Malaysia app v2.0 

Over 1.2 million users have downloaded the Gerak Malaysia application, with 503, 276 users applying for interstate travel permits as of noon today. 

“The application has also been upgraded to version 2.0 by allowing people to set their travel plans before May 6, ‘’ he said in a press conference, here today.

Please click here to read the article.

Published 4 May 2020

MCO loosened from 4 May

It was announced by Prime Minister YAB Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin on Labour Day, that from Monday 4 May 2020, the Movement Control Order will be slightly loosened to enable most businesses to re – open.  During MCO, the nation was losing about RM 2.4 bil daily, with the total loss so far estimated at about RM 63 bil.    
Take note: MCO4 remains in place, following the Ministry of Health’ Standard Operating Procedures and maintaining social distancing continues to be of the highest priority. 

SUMMARY OF THE ANNOUNCEMENT
Not allowed / Caution on:
– Inter – state travel, including to balik kampung for Hari Raya Aidilfitri
– Sporting events, all religious activities, sports, and recreational activities involving large gatherings
– Schools, colleges, and universities will remain closed
– Enhanced MCO will still be enforced at locations which recorded a high number of cases (such as red zones)
– Click here for an overview of businesses and activities which are not yet allowed

It is advised to:
– Regularly check the MKN website on the list of industries that are not allowed
– Continue work from home as much as possible for all staff not required to be on site
– Companies to provide for staggered working hours for staff that is required to come to the office
– With physical activities and eating at restaurants, maintain social distancing
– The public is advised to download MySejahtera app to enable contact tracing

It is mandatory to:
– Leave home only if necessary
– Maintain social distancing
– Follow the SOPs:
MITI SOPs for Authorized Sectors
National Security Council (regularly down due to heavy traffic)
Our colleagues of AMCHAM have done a great job in providing (unofficial) English translations of SOPs for many different industries.  Please click here to view the English translation.

Announcements from MITI:
– All companies in the authorized sectors will no longer have to apply to operate
– Companies in all authorized sectors can start operations on 4 May (excluding disallowed sectors)
– Beginning May 4, companies only have to:
1. Disclose company information
2. Agree to the SOP compliance pledge via the portal: notification.miti.gov.my
Companies do not have to rush, you have up till 12 May to submit the company details.
– Companies that have previously applied to operate do not need to make a declaration on the company.
For further information, please visit MITI website or Facebook page

Published 4 May 2020

CMCO Extended to 9 June

The Prime Minister announced that the CMCO will be extended until 9 June.  The Prime Minister said mass movements would not be allowed although major festivals – Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Kaamatan and Hari Gawai (the harvest festival in Sabah and Sarawak respectively) – fall within that period.

Please click here to read the article.

Published 11 May 2020

MPC Adopts Online Platforms to Assist Businesses Amid COVID – 19

The Malaysia Productivity Corporation (MPC) has adopted several online platforms to assist businesses to mitigate the impacts of the Movement Control Order (MCO), as well as to support their productivity and business growth.

Among the online platforms are, Unified Public Consultation (UPC) portal to obtain public feedback on amendments to existing regulations and the drafting of new regulations.

Please click here to read the article.

Published 28 May 2020

SOP Compliance, Social Distancing Must Continue During RMCO in Sarawak

Complying with the standard operating procedure (SOP) and social distancing must continue and should not be compromised despite entering enforcement phase of the Recovery Movement Control Order (RMCO).

Please click here to read the article.

Published 11 June 2020

KPMG NERP Highlights

On 5 June 2020, Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, launched the National Economic Recovery Plan (“NERP”) worth RM 35 billion.  Bearing the theme of “Building the Economy Together”, the NERP aims to aid Malaysia’s economic recovery through empowering the people, propelling businesses, and stimulating the economy.

Various measures are proposed under the NERP. These include incentives which are focused on keeping people employed and promoting employment, incentivising technology adoption and digitalisation, assisting Micro Enterprises and Small and Medium Enterprises, reviving targeted sectors of the economy, attracting foreign investments, as well as assisting businesses faced with cash flow issues to sustain their business operations and gradually enhance productivity amidst the COVID – 19 pandemic.

KPMG provides the highlights of the proposed key measures that are outlined in the booklet published by the Ministry of Finance and announced in the Speech by the Prime Minister.

Please click here for the KPMG NERP Highlights.
Please click here for the NERP Booklet.

Published 11 June 2020

PENJANA: National Economic Recovery Plan

Now in the RMCO period, the Malaysian Government rolled out a set of strategic initiatives to help the nation’s economic recovery.  PENJANA (Pelan Jana Semula Ekonomi Negara), or the National Economic Recovery Plan focuses on 3 key thrusts: Empower People, Propel Businesses, and Stimulate the Economy.

Please click here to read / download the PENJANA Booklet 
Please click here to visit the PENJANA website
Prime Minister’s Speech – Short-Term Economic Recovery Plan (PENJANA)
PENJANA FAQs

Published 11 June 2020

PEMANDU Associates Launches the Global COVID – 19 Index

Developed by PEMANDU Associates in partnership with Malaysia’s Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) and Sunway University, the GCI is designed to assist countries in managing the pandemic.

Access the GCI 
For more information, please contact .

Published 11 June 2020

Flights, public transport can operate at full volume (Updated)

Public transportation and flights can now begin operating at full capacity, Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob announced today.  The Senior Minister (Defence) said these include public buses, ferries, rail services and express buses nationwide.  However, service providers and passengers are required to adhere to all standard operating procedures (SOPs) outlined by the government to ensure safety and minimise the risk of infection.

Please click here to read the article.

Published 12 June 2020

No Limit to Number of People in Social Gatherings and Places of Worship Starting July 15

There will no longer be a limit as to how many people can attend a conference, social gathering or prayers in mosques or places of worship starting July 15, says Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.  The Senior Minister said the special Cabinet committee has agreed to allow event organisers, wedding hosts and mosques to determine how many people can participate depending on the size of the event space, with social distancing put in practice.

Please click here to read the article.

Published 10 July 2020

Expatriates in Malaysia Not Allowed to Go on Holidays Overseas

Expatriates in Malaysia are not allowed to go on holidays overseas, says Senior Minister (Defense) Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

Please click here to read the article.

Published 14 July 2020

Green Lane, Commuting Deal to Pilot Full Reopening of Malaysia – Singapore Border

The Reciprocal Green Lane (RGL) and the Periodic Commuting Arrangement (PCA) with Singapore will test the feasibility of a full reopening of the shared border amid the COVID – 19 pandemic, said Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein.

He told reporters in the Parliament building today that the success of the first two steps, which he dubbed as Categories One and Two, would make it easier to negotiate for the next two steps.

Please click here to read the article.

Published 15 July 2020

COVID – 19 Drives Digitalisation of Logistics Industry to Meet Demand

The COVID – 19 pandemic has pushed the logistics industry to re – evaluate and re – strategise their operations towards digitalisation.

Malaysia Investment Development Authority (MIDA) said the move has boosted productivity and enhanced business flow, both of which are fundamental for business sustainability.

Please click here to read the article.

Published 16 July 2020

3 Main Economic Sectors Start Showing Signs of Recovery

The country’s three main economic sectors, namely manufacturing, construction and agriculture that have been hit hard by the COVID – 19 pandemic, have gradually recovered, said Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Economy) Datuk Seri Mustapa Mohamed.

Please click here to read the article.

Published 20 July 2020

16 Tourism Sites in Penang Get COVID – 19 Safety Accreditation

The Penang government has granted its COVID – 19 Safety Accreditation certificate to 16 tourism industry players in the state.

State Tourism, Arts, Culture and Heritage Committee (PETACH) chairman Yeoh Soon Hin said the accreditation programme was to recognise adherence to strict hygiene and safety standards in tourism establishments in an effort to ensure public health and safety for tourists.

Please click here to read the article.

Published 20 July 2020

Malaysia Riding Out COVID – 19 Storm Comparatively Better – World Bank

Despite the numerous challenges brought by the COVID – 19 pandemic, Malaysia is riding out the severe economic downturn comparatively better than many economies, said the World Bank.  Country Director for Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, East Asia, and Pacific, Ndiamé Diop said Malaysia’s economy rests on strong fundamentals.

The country’s diversified economic structure, sound financial system, effective public health response, and proactive macroeconomic policy support have all helped to soften the pandemic’s blow, he said in a statement today.

For more info, please click here.

Published 20 July 2020

COVID – 19 Makes Cooperation, Coordination Among APEC Members Imperative 

The borderless nature of epidemics such as COVID – 19 makes regional cooperation and policy coordination imperative, said Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Secretariat executive director Tan Sri Dr Rebecca Fatima Sta Maria.

Please click here to read the article.

Published 21 July 2020

Financial compensation for SMEs affected by postponements, cancellations of trade promotion events

The Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) has offered financial compensation for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) affected by postponements or cancellations of trade promotion events due to the COVID – 19 pandemic.  

CEO Datuk Wan Latiff Wan Musa said the assistance is provided through the utilisation of Market Development Grant (MDG), which allows SMEs to claim for reimbursements of specific expenses incurred, such as non- refundable participation fees, airfares and accommodation, subject to the total of all three expense components did not exceed RM25,000 per event.

Please click here to read the article.

Published 30 July 2020

MySejahtera app now mandatory for all businesses

The government has mandated the use of the MySejahtera application for all businesses nationwide.  The move is meant to facilitate contact tracing processes, said Senior Minister (Security Cluster) Datuk Seri Ismail Yaakob.

Please click here to read the article.

Published 4 August 2020

RMCO extended until Dec 31 – Muhyiddin

The Recovery Movement Control Order (RMCO) has been extended until 31 December 2020, said Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin.

According to him, with the extension of the RMCO period, enforcement action under the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988, or Act 342, could still be taken.

“This is to ensure that all parties comply with the Standard Operating Procedures and health protocols set,” he said in a special message on the latest developments of RMCO which was broadcast on local television.

Click here to read the full article.

Published 28 August 2020

Entry Restrictions on Foreign Travelers to Malaysia

Please be informed that the Government of Malaysia has imposed entry restrictions into Malaysia on foreign travellers who are travelling from countries that have recorded over 150,000 COVID-19 cases. The entry restrictions take effect from 7 September 2020, and the countries affected are as listed below:

Advertisement of Job Vacancies via JobsMalaysia Portal

With regards to the Government initiatives made by Cabinet on 4th June 2020, companies that intend to hire an expatriate are required to advertise job vacancies to locals via JobsMalaysia Portal https://www.jobsmalaysia.gov.my/jobsmy. JobsMalaysia will only issue a “Surat Perakuan” to companies that have advertised the job vacancy to locals for a minimum of 30 days and were unsuccessful in hiring a local talent.

Once companies received “Surat Perakuan” from JobsMalaysia, it is compulsory to attach the document upon submitting the Employment Pass application.

For more detailed information, please visit http://jtksm.mohr.gov.my. Should you require further assistance, please contact Department of Labour Peninsular Malaysia at 03 88865192 or send an e – mail to 

As per above announcement, all jobs for expatriates need to be advertised for 30 days before application to the related agencies can be make; eg ESD, MIDA, MDEC, etc.

For more info, please click here

Published 2 October 2020

COVID – 19: New CMCO for Klang, Sandakan, Papar, Tuaran from Friday (VIDEO)

The government today announced that three districts in Sabah and one district in Selangor will be under a 14 – day conditional movement control order (CMCO) from October 9 as they are COVID – 19 red zones.  As for the CMCO standard operating procedures (SOPs), Ismail Sabri said that entry and exit from these four districts would not be allowed.

Click here to read the article.

Published 7 October

All Sectors in Klang to Continue Operations Under Strict SOP Compliance

All economic sectors in the Klang district will be allowed to continue operations under strict SOP compliance, during the CMCO which begins tomorrow.

Click here to read the press release [BM only]

Published 8 October 2020

Selangor Government to Conduct Targeted COVID – 19 Screening in Klang

The Selangor government will conduct targeted COVID-19 screening in areas in Klang district which will be placed under Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO) beginning tomorrow (Oct 9).

Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari said that the state government will provide full cooperation to all federal government agencies involved to ensure that the well-being of the people is protected during this period.

Click here to read the article

Published 8 October 2020

Permit Required for Those Exiting CMCO Areas in Klang

People residing in Klang mukim (sub-district) housing estates which have been placed under the conditional movement control order (CMCO) beginning today, must obtain a police permit to leave the area for work or other important matters.

Selangor police chief Datuk Noor Azam Jamaludin said the permit form can be downloaded from the official Facebook Page of the South Klang District Police.

Click here to read the article.

Published 9 October 2020

Letter from Employer Sufficient to Enter / Exit CMCO Areas in Klang

Employees who live in areas where roadblocks are being held following the conditional movement control order (CMCO) in Klang sub-district only need a letter from their employer to enter and exit the areas for work purposes.

Selangor Police Chief Datuk Noor Azam Jamaludin said with the letter from their employer, a police permit was not required.

“However, those who have no verification letter from their employer or employee pass can download the form from Klang Selatan, Klang Utara and Shah Alam Police Headquarters Facebook pages, or get it at the roadblock,” he told Bernama today.

Click here to read the article.

Published 9 October 2020

What You Can and Cannot Do After Klang Valley Falls Under 14 day CMCO

Selangor, Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya will undergo the conditional movement control order (CMCO) starting midnight tonight until October 27, following spikes in Covid-19 cases in Klang Valley.

After public confusion following yesterday’s announcement that came with scant details, Putrajaya has today released guidelines for residents and businesses in the affected areas, which slightly differ from the last CMCO which ended in June.

1. Interstate and interdistrict travel is not permitted. This means if one needs to cross from the Petaling Jaya district in Selangor to the Segambut district in Kuala Lumpur, this is still not permitted.

2. Only two persons for each household are allowed to travel at one time for work, to buy necessities or groceries and for emergencies.

3. Employees who are travelling across districts however, need to provide a valid letter of permission or a work pass from their employer.

4. For those intending to travel out of state or out of their respective district due to emergency or funerals, they need to get prior police approval.

5. Those wishing to catch a flight would also need police approval.

6. All educational institutions such as schools, kindergartens, and colleges, among others, will be closed.

7. Most business sectors such are eateries, food trucks, restaurants and convenient stores are allowed to operate from 6am to 10pm.

8. Dine-ins are also allowed but limited to only two person per table, provided the outlets follow the standard operating procedure for eateries. Takeaways and deliveries are preferred.

9. For daily wet market, they are only allowed to operate from 6am to 2pm, while wholesale markets can operate from 4am to 2pm, and night markets are only allowed to operate from 4pm to 10pm. While operations for these markets are allowed, it will follow strict SOP and will be monitored by Rela personnel.

10. Petrol stations within affected areas are only allowed to operate from 6am to 10pm with the exception of those along major highways, which are allowed to operate 24 hours.

11. Public transport such as LRT, MRT and buses are allowed to operate as usual.

12. E – hailing vehicle are only allowed to ferry a maximum of two passengers while food delivery is only allowed to operate from 6am to 12am.

13. Private and public healthcare centres such as hospitals and clinics are allowed to operate 24 hours, as usual.

14. Pharmacies however, can only operate from 8am to 11pm.

15. Only six people, comprising of committee members are allowed to pray at their respective mosque or surau, while non-Muslim places of worship are also limited to six devotees at any given time.

16. Any recreational, social and cultural activities such as weddings, exercising in public parks or visiting an entertainment outlet is prohibited during the CMCO period.

17. However, non-contact sports such as e-sports and outdoor sports are only limited to 10 people.

Click here to read the article.

Published 13 October 2020

Latest SOPs for CMCO: KL, Putrajaya, and Selangor.

The government of Malaysia has released the latest SOP for Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO) in Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya and Selangor. For full details, please refer to the official Malay document and the unofficial English translated version by EUROCHAM Malaysia below.

CMCO SOP Official BM Version
CMCO SOP English Translation (Unofficial.  Translated by EuroCham Malaysia)

Published 15 October 2020

CMCO SOP fact check: The most common misconceptions debunked

Almost a week has passed since it came into effect, yet confusion prevails over the standard operating procedures (SOP) for the Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO) currently in place in Selangor, the Federal Territories and Sabah. With the partial lockdown only expected to be lifted on Oct 26 at the earliest in Sabah and the Oct 27 for Selangor and the Federal Territories, Malay Mail has compiled a list of the most common misconceptions regarding the CMCO SOP so you know what’s true and false.

Click here to read the article.

Published 19 October 2020

Fully Subsidised COVID – 19 Swab Tests for Employees Available via MYEG Portal

MY E.G. Services Bhd’s one stop COVID – 19 portal provides a convenient channel for employers in areas under Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO) to arrange for the subsidised screening of their workers.

MYEG’s one stop COVID – 19 portal, launched in May, is a convenient alternative channel for companies that wish to streamline the process of registering and arranging for the testing of their workers – both Malaysians and non-Malaysians – for the COVID – 19 virus.

“The costs of the tests for such employees who are contributors to the Socso will be borne by Socso,” it said in a statement.

Click here to read the article

Published 22 October 2020

FMM Update: Swab Test Requirement for Employees in Red Zones

Senior Minister of Defence YB Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob in his daily press conference on October 21, 2020 had clarified the following in relation to the requirement for the COVID – 19 screening swab test for employees in the red zones within the CMCO areas to ensure early detection and deter any new clusters at the workplace:

i. Swab test is mandatory for all foreign workers in the construction sector and for security guards
ii. Swab test is mandatory for persons showing symptoms of the COVID – 19 infection
iii. Workers from the red zone subjected to the Work From Home directive but required to return to work in the office by their employers are highly encouraged to take the swab test

Click here for more details

Published 23 October 2020

Official CMCO SOP For States In Peninsular Malaysia As Of 8 November 

This is an English translation of the official CMCO SOP published by the National Security Council.

Areas Involved:  W.P. Kuala Lumpur, W.P. Putrajaya, Selangor, Kedah, Penang, Perak, Negeri Sembilan, Melaka, Johor, and Terengganu

Effective Period:  9 November 2020 (from 12.01 am) until 6 December 2020 (11.59 pm)

Activities allowed:
• Chain of economic and industrial activities.
• Performing Official Government Duties.
• Obtain healthcare, situations of emergency and death.

Activities not allowed:
• List of Unauthorized Activities
• Movement of residents from CMCO areas / across districts and states except with the permission of PDRM & allowed business / activities.
• Movement of residents from outside CMCO / cross-district and state areas other than allowed business / activities.

Fixed Instructions:
• Act 342 (Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988)
• Subject to rulings issued by MKN and MOH.
• Instructions, rules and SOPs under the Ministry / Department / Agency.
• Other instructions from time to time issued by the Director General of Health.

Click here to read the article in full (with activities and protocols)

Published 8 November 2020

Two million affected EPF members will have access to I-Sinar – EPF CEO

The Employees Provident Fund (EPF) expects the i-Sinar facility to benefit 2 million eligible members with an estimated advance amount of RM14 billion to be made available.

Chief executive officer Tunku Alizakri Raja Muhammad Alias said the EPF has widened the scope of i-Sinar to cover active members who lost their jobs, were given no-pay leave, or have no other source of income.

Click here to read the full article.

Published 17 November 2020

90% of SME digitalisation initiative applications approved

As of Monday, a total of 5,634 applications from small and medium enterprises (SMEs) have been received for the SME Business Digitalisation Grant initiative, said Communications and Multimedia Minister Datuk Saifuddin Abdullah.

Of the total, Saifuddin said RM14.6 million matching grants had been approved to 5,087 eligible SMEs, which involved 90% of the total number of applications received.

Click here to read the full article.

Published 20 November 2020

Mandatory COVID – 19 screenings for foreign workers start 1 Dec

Beginning tomorrow, employers will have to conduct COVID – 19 screening tests for foreign workers at several factories identified by the Human Resource Ministry, said Senior Minister (Security Cluster) Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

For a start, the tests will focus only on high – risk areas in Selangor, Negeri Sembilan, Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Sabah and Labuan.

Click here to read the article.

Published 1 December 2020

Interstate, inter – district travel ban lifted among new SOPs

Inter – district and interstate travel is no longer prohibited under new guidelines issued by the government.  Defence Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob said the exception is for areas under an enhanced movement control order.  For travelling into Sabah, individuals must get a COVID – 19 test three days before entry. Only those without symptoms and have negative test results will be allowed in.

Click here to read the full article.

Published 7 December

With CMCO to end in most states tomorrow, which areas are still under it until Dec 20?

The conditional movement control order (CMCO) will end tomorrow (December 6) in most states in Peninsular Malaysia, but there are certain districts or pockets of areas where CMCO will be extended and still be in force until December 20.

Click here for the full list for whether RMCO or CMCO applies in each state, based on the government’s announcement.

Published 7 December 2020

Updated General SOP for CMCO

Click here for the updated general SOP for CMCO (Unofficial English Translation)

Published 22 December 2020

Health DG Advises COVID – 19 Positive Cases to Self Isolate First

Health Director – General Tan, Sri Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah, advised those who have tested positive for COVID – 19 but are asymptomatic to be isolated at home as they may not be taken to the hospitals immediately.  Dr Noor Hisham said that this is because the Ministry of Health (MOH) is currently dealing with a very high number of cases and logistics issues when it comes to ferrying patients to hospitals.  Dr Noor Hisham also said people waiting to be taken to hospitals should also keep in contact with their district health offices.

Click here to read the article.

Published 28 December 2020

CMCO in KL, S’gor, Sabah and several localities in other states extended until Jan 14

The Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO) for Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Sabah and several localities in other states has been extended by another two weeks until Jan 14, 2021, said Senior Minister (Security Cluster) Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

He said the government decided on this after taking the advice and risk assessment of the Health Ministry (MOH) based on the trend and increase in positive COVID-19 cases in these areas and the emergence of new clusters in Kuala Lumpur.

Click here to read the article

Published 29 December 2020

Southeast Asia COVID – 19 vaccine tracker: Who gets what, when

In the evolving race for COVID – 19 vaccines, Indonesia has taken the apparent lead in Southeast Asia with the delivery of vaccines from China’s Sinovac Biotech Ltd on Dec 6.

Southeast Asia’s biggest and most populous economy has also announced multiple agreements to receive potential vaccines, as the nation fights the worst coronavirus outbreak in the region.

Yet when it comes to the Pfizer Inc – BioNTech SE vaccine that has been bolstered by UK and US regulatory approvals, smaller but wealthier Singapore has the advantage — it received its first shipment on Dec 21.

Both countries are also involved in vaccine development and manufacturing, a testament to the variety of strategies employed across the region. Here’s how the region of more than 650 million people is dealing with differing fiscal, demographic and distribution challenges in their vaccine strategies.

Click here to read the article and see the breakdown of who gets what, when.

Published 29 December 2020