​PETALING JAYA: MEF thanked the Interim Prime Minister YAB Tan Sri Muhyiddin Mohd Yassin and members of his past Cabinet for allowing companies classified as non-essential under Phase 1 of the National Recovery Plan (NRP) to resume operations beginning on Aug 16.

MEF President Dato’ Dr Syed Hussain Syed Husman J.P. said: “We thank the government for responding positively to our pleas to allow the small operators such as car wash, barbers, saloons and gift shops in the Klang Valley to open.

“This has provided much relief to the SMEs and micro enterprises that were classified as non-essential under Phase 1 of the NRP, and MEF is grateful for this.

“MEF also recognises the past government as industry-friendly where there was constant engagement with all industry stakeholders on the needs of the business sectors.

“MEF had access to many high-level platforms that were established such as the National TVET Council (MTVET), the National Employment Council (NEC), including the Economic Recovery Council and we thank the past government for all that had been done for the employers and the country.  

“These engagements were supported with the provisions of financial aid to employers and the rakyat with implementation of strategic initiatives such as PRIHATIN, PENJANA, PEMERKASA, LAKSANA and PEMULIH that supported business continuity, job creation and livelihoods.

“In particular, MEF appreciates all the efforts and assistance provided by the Ministry of Human Resources  and its agencies including SOCSO, HRDF and EIS that was spearheaded by YB Datuk Seri M. Saravanan for the benefit of employers and employees. 

“The Ministry of International Trade and Industry also played an integral role in managing the Covid-19 SOPs and the PIKAS public-private collaborative effort to encourage vaccination among private sector employees.

As the largest employer organisation in Malaysia, Dato’ Dr Syed Hussain said MEF hopes the future government would engage with the Federation and the industry to ensure that all policies and procedures are business-friendly and able to encourage more investments into the country.  

For further information, contact the MEF Secretariat at 03-7955-7778 or fax 03-7955-9008 or email mef-hq@mef.org.my.

17 AUGUST 2021