New COVID restrictions are disrupting manufacturing and logistics throughout Southeast Asia.  Malaysia is experiencing the highest number of cases, rising to over 10,000, and lockdowns remain throughout the country.  This is affecting traffic out of Selangor/Kuala Lumpur/Port Klang.  The majority of employees are working from home in all sectors, so our partners have informed us to expect delays to continue with freight and communication out of Malaysia.

Vietnam is starting to see a rise in COVID cases as well, which is affecting the transport out of Ho Chi Minh and Haiphong.  Our partners report about 10% of staff working in the office, with the remaining working from home.  Warehouses are also taking a hit as there are new rules in place, causing delays and even some factories closing.

Please note the following restrictions in Malaysia:

• Roads in areas affected will be closed and guarded by police.
• Mobile roadblocks and ‘snap checks’ will be installed in EMCO (enhanced movement control order) areas – barbed wire fencing and barriers will be installed in selected districts.
• Residents are not allowed to leave their homes except for emergency purposes or to purchase necessities.
• Only one person from each home is allowed to head out to buy basic necessities within a 10km radius of their homes.
• Up to three people (including the patient) may cross state and district borders to seek healthcare, medical care, or head for COVID-19 vaccination appointments.
• No movement outside the residential area is allowed after 8 PM, except for emergency cases or with permission from PDRM.
• Only essential services (e.g., restaurants, grocery stores, daily necessities stores) are allowed to operate from 8 AM – 8 PM.
• All sports, social, recreational, and cultural activities are strictly prohibited.
• The Health Ministry will conduct targeted screening tests in selected affected areas.
• Public transportation (e.g., LRT, trains, buses) is allowed to operate at 50% capacity.
• The capacity of e-hailing vehicles and taxis is limited to two per vehicle, including the driver (only one passenger allowed).
• All educational institutions will be closed during the EMCO period.
• Civil servants and the workforce in essential services are limited to 20% (60% for the private sector), while civil servants and the workforce in non-essential services are required to work from home.