Only five essential service sectors allowed to operate during MCO, says PM

PETALING JAYA: Only five sectors are allowed to operate during the movement control order starting Wednesday (Jan 13), says Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin.

In his special address on Monday (Jan 11), the Prime Minister said these essential economic sectors are factories and manufacturing, construction, services, trades and distribution along with plantation and commodities.

"These sectors are allowed to operate to support the needs for basic necessities, household items as well self care, personal protective equipment, medical equipment and medicine, and to ensure the supply remains available to support the current critical infrastructure and emergency works," he said.

However, the Prime Minister said only 30% of the work force at the management level are allowed to be in the office.

He said the number of supporting staff and the number of staff required to be present would be determined by the respective employers, he said.

He said the International Trade and Industry Ministry (Miti) will provide full details of all the services listed as essential economic sectors.

Muhyiddin said a work-from-home order will be enforced for those not in the list.

"All employers will have to follow the order to reduce movement within the community, especially in highly concentrated areas.

"Only through this measure, can we reduce the infection risk of Covid-19 at work places," he said.