PETALING JAYA: Any road closures or flexible work arrangements during the Asean Summit should be announced well in advance to help businesses plan effectively, say stakeholders.
Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers president Tan Sri Soh Thian Lai said at least two weeks’ notice would be ideal.
“A well-planned and coordinated traffic management strategy, with advance notice of closures, clear alternative routes and real-time updates, will go a long way in reducing the burden on businesses and the public while ensuring the success of the summits,” he said.
Soh added that road closures should be limited in duration and scope to minimise the impact on logistics and business operations.
He proposed partial or staggered closures to maintain access for workers and the movement of goods to key hubs such as ports, airports and distribution centres.
On April 17, Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan said a proposal would be made to the Cabinet for work from home and home-based learning arrangements during the summits this month and in October.
This follows traffic issues during the recent state visit by Chinese President Xi Jinping.
On the proposed remote working measure, Soh suggested it should be limited to states or zones directly affected.
“By targeting only host cities or traffic-sensitive zones, security and traffic management concerns can be effectively addressed while minimising disruption to broader economic activity.”
Malaysian Employers Federation president Datuk Dr Syed Hussain Syed Husman suggested rotational remote work to ease traffic while sustaining business operations.
He recommended optimising public transport and alternative routes, while also offering reduced working hours or flexible school hours in tandem with remote working.
“Clear guidelines should be provided. Remote working can help reduce congestion, but its implementation must be carefully planned,” Syed Hussain said.
He also called for engagement with stakeholders to avoid negative impacts on productivity.
“Ensuring data security outside office networks is a possible concern, especially for some sensitive sectors. Poor internet connectivity can also hinder work efficiency.”
SME Association of Malaysia national president Chin Chee Seong said any road closure should be announced at least a week in advance and, if possible, limited to specific hours so businesses could go about their daily routines.
The 46th Asean Summit is slated for May 26 and 27, while the Asean Summit with Dialogue Partners is set for late October.
