KL CPO advises workers in agriculture sector to be patient

CORONAVIRUS | Kuala Lumpur police chief Mazlan Lazim has urged workers, notably those in the agriculture sector, to be patient during the movement control order.

This followed complaints from some vegetable sellers and lorry drivers who had to dispose of their stocks as they were facing hurdles in delivering them on time due to roadblocks and limited operational hours.

Mazlan explained that the police have asked business operators to reduce their workforce - to lessen the risk of Covid-19 and observe social distance - for two weeks.

"There is no intention to cut the food supply chain, the police asked the public to stay at home and don't stay too close (with each other)," he told Malaysiakini.

Yesterday, several farmers told Malaysiakini that due to the restrictions, they could not generate enough income.

The Kuala Lumpur wholesale market is one of the markets badly affected by the current situation.

Malaysiakini has also contacted the Kuala Lumpur City Hall for comment.

PKR strategic director Sim Tze Tzin had urged the government to take drastic measures to curb losses faced by farmers throughout the order.

Meanwhile, Mazlan also urged vegetable sellers to observe social distancing in the market.

"If there are 440 stalls and each stall has five workers, that means there will be 2,200 people in the market.

"We are not chasing you out, this is just an advice. If there's no work and customers, it's better to stay at home to observe the order," he said.

The order, initially to be in effect from March 18 to March 31, has been extended until April 14. - Mkini