Top Glove Corp Bhd decided to suspend operations of its factories in Selangor, Malaysia. An additional two-week lockdown in the country became the main reason for the decision.
Top Glove is the world’s largest medical gloves maker. Over half of Top Glove factories are located in Klang, Selangor.
A few days ago, the Ministry of International Trade and Industry released a statement saying that only critical sectors are allowed to operate during the EMCO (Enhanced Movement Control Order).
Businesses and factories in the capital Kuala Lumpur and neighbouring Selangor will be under control during this period. Accordingly, the EMCO will last until July 16. This act is a part of Malaysia’s attempt to suppress COVID-19 infections.
The critical sectors mentioned are those that support the production of healthcare products, food and beverages as well as the global supply chains. Additionally, authorities will be monitoring operations of the selected sectors under enhanced movement restrictions.
However, the statement did not mention glove-makers. Hence, Top Glove has decided to halt its operation temporarily.
“Top Glove wishes to inform that its medical glove factories in Klang will not be operating temporarily, in compliance with the EMCO (Enhanced Movement Control Order) directive,” Top Glove wrote to Reuters through email.
In the meantime, Top Glove will be waiting for local authorities’ clarification.
“The company looks forward to safely resuming operations at the appropriate time,” Top Glove further added.
Top Glove operation halt causes concern
Upon this, similar gloves manufacturer Hartalega Holdings voiced its concern on the factory shutdown. Hartalega Holdings told Reuters that the operation halt could significantly impact both local and international healthcare value chains.
Hartalega Holdings is a key manufacturer of nitrile gloves for hospitals.
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