Covid-19: Compulsory testing for foreign workers starts Dec 1

KUALA LUMPUR: The compulsory Covid-19 screenings for foreign workers will be conducted in stages starting Dec 1.

Senior Minister (Security) Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said the programme will initially focus on Selangor, Negri Sembilan, Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Sabah and Labuan.

"Employers must make appointments with private health facilities for the test and the facilities must abide by the standard operating procedure (SOP) set by the Health Ministry.

"The cost for the services at clinics and hospitals must be covered by employers while the RM60 test kit will be covered by Socso, but only for the first test (for each worker)," he told reporters during his daily briefing on Friday (Nov 27).

He said the Human Resource Ministry would make a more detailed announcement soon.

"The ministry has also conducted checks on accommodation provided to foreign workers by several companies.

"Action has been taken against various factories for not adhering to the standards set by the Workers Housing and Accommodation Minimum Standard Act 1990," he said.