May 20, 2025
KUALA LUMPUR – The government, employers, employees and unions need to work together to handle the congestion that is expected in the heart of the capital during the Asean Summit.
While employers have been urged to permit their employees to work from home (WFH) during this period, it may not be feasible for everyone.
However, employers understand the importance of the summit for the nation, said Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF) president Datuk Dr Syed Hussein Syed Husman.
“Hosting the Asean Summit brings diplomatic and economic benefits to the country and we call on all employers to cooperate, provided that it does not affect core operations and the well-being of employees,” he said.
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Syed Hussein said more than 30,000 employees from Suria KLCC, Menara ExxonMobil and the Petronas Twin Towers would be directly affected if major roads are closed.
“Wider disruptions across Kuala Lumpur could affect tens of thousands,” he added.
While implementing WFH arrangements could help, there needs to be careful planning so as not to affect productivity, he added.
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“It is important to note that not all private sector employers have an efficient flexible work management system for WFH.
“If businesses are not physically operating, other businesses, such as restaurants, transportation and services near business areas, will also suffer losses,” he said.
He added that authorities must engage with affected employers to help them prepare for possible disruptions.
SME Association president Chin Chee Seong agreed that some businesses affected by the road closures would not be able to implement a WFH arrangement.
“I am sure businesses like restaurants would want to avoid the traffic disruption and congestion during the summit.
“It would be impossible for them to close their operations,” he said.
Chin added that the majority of businesses understand the rationale behind the temporary road closures.
“The road closures are temporary and do not affect the entire country, so it should not be an issue,” he said yesterday.
Small and Medium Enterprises Association Malaysia (Samenta) national president Datuk William Ng said the decision on whether employees should be allowed to WFH during the summit period is at the discretion of their employers.
“We encourage SMEs in affected locations to allow their employees to work from home during the summit.
“However, this decision should be left to employers, considering operational requirements and practicality,” he said.
While some SMEs may face disruptions due to the road closures, he said they would be supportive and understanding of this “once-in-a-decade” Malaysian chairmanship of Asean.
The chair of the regional bloc rotates among its 10 members every year.
Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia (ACCCIM) treasurer-general Datuk Koong Lin Loong said that some businesses would definitely be affected, but it would be bearable considering that it is only temporary.
He added that smaller businesses, such as restaurants or those that need “face-to-face” interaction, would be most affected by the traffic disruption.
Nevertheless, Koong said employers are encouraged to allow WFH arrangements for their employees if possible.