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Heineken Malaysia Factories No Longer Considered Essential Service, Ordered To Close

Heineken Malaysia Factories No Longer Considered Essential Service, Ordered To Close

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On March 31, a letter inked by the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry acknowledged that alcoholic beverages producer Heineken Malaysia was a food supply operator, and therefore classed under the essential services list and allowed to operate during the movement control order (MCO).

The ministry affirms and agrees that your businesses activities can open/operate to ensure sufficient food supply throughout the MCO enforcement.

Secretary-General Datuk Seri Hasnol Zam Zam Ahmad

In a later statement, Heineken stressed that less than 10% of their workforce will be involved to ensure steady supply of products into the market, while other non-essential workers will be working from home.

We have an obligation to ensure continuous supply of our products, maintain the employment of our people and to contribute positively to the economic recovery of our nation.

Heineken Malaysia
Even Heineken Malaysia’s stock price grew steadily since the announcement.
(Credit: Freepik)

However, a mere week later, Putrajaya has decided to revoke the approval for Heineken Malaysia to continue its business activities.

This came after Umno, PAS, and Bersatu leaders criticised the government’s decision, citing that alcohol was not an essential product.

PAS Pasir Mas MP Ahmad Fadhil Shaari noted that it is mandatory for a Muslim like himself and the Muslim community to stand up and voice their protest against this leniency and privilege given to the alcohol industry.

He further questions what value is left for a Muslim who prays to God while they allow alcohol to flow freely when they could stop it.

Federal Territories Minister Tan Sri Annuar Musa doubled down on the decision, claiming that the approval for the alcohol beverage was not in line with MCO policy.

The decision was made at a cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin earlier today and an immediate revocation letter will be issued.

On an unrelated note, Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Secretary General Datuk Seri Hasnol Zam Zam Ahmad has been appointed as Chairman of the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM). The appointment came into effect starting 1 April 2020 to 31 March 2022.


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