REPUBLIC OF BETUTU LATEST NEWS, CURRENT AFFAIRS & EVENTS

[Betutu]

Thousands of guests drive through Betutuan lawmaker's son's wedding reception


Beran MP Mr Mazlan Nurdin

GAGUK, Republic of Betutu, Jan 9 — About 1,000 people attended the "drive-through' wedding reception of Beran Member of Parliament Mr Mazlan Nurdin's son, held at Beran Community Hall, today.

Mr Mazlan is a member of Betutu's ruling party National Unity Front.

A special stage was set up in front of the Beran Community Hall where the newly-weds, Mr Sharin Mazlan and Ms Olga Unggul, were seated and waved to the guests, who passed-by in their vehicles before collecting their food packs at a special tent as they left the venue.

The Javanese-themed ceremony started at 11am and ended at about 2pm.

Mr Sharin said he and his family thanked all the guests who came to the wedding reception, despite it being carried out under the new normal.

"The drive-through concept was my father's idea. He wanted my wedding to be celebrated by all the people in Beran because they are also my family, as I grew up here," he said.

Mr Sharin, who is pursuing medical studies in Indonesia, said the ceremony was held in compliance with prescribed standard operating procedures (SOP) to prevent the spread of Covid-19.

The event was enlivened by Javanese cultural performances, as well as local artistes, who could be viewed on a huge screen next to the stage.

[Betutu]

Betutu police say ready with enforcement if inter-district travel ban restored


Inspector General of Police Mr Filip Puralupa said that the police have issued a circular to district police chiefs to make preparations for roadblocks and travel permission slip inspections.

GAGUK, Republic of Betutu, Jan 9 — As Covid-19 cases continue to soar again here and nationwide, Betutu police are prepared to enforce another inter-district travel ban in the event this was restored.

Inspector General of Police Mr Filip Puralupa said that the police have issued a circular to district police chiefs notifying them of the possibility.

“Any directive will come from the Betutu Security Council. But the police have to be prepared to act quickly in case it does,” he said.

The circular, which has been circulating on social media, told district police chiefs to make preparations for roadblocks and travel permission slip inspections.

An inter-district travel ban had been imposed in Betutu in October last year following a surge in Covid 19 cases. Aside from essential travel, no one was allowed in and out of the island nation either.

The ban was lifted in time for the festive year-end holidays and to spur economic activities, but it also caused a spike in cases over the last week, likely from social gatherings.

Betutu Health Department director general Dr Albert Idden said that today 261 cases out of the total 355 new cases today were from community infections, or cases found from close contact screening.

The remaining are from individual symptomatic screenings (35), workplace screenings (14) and private swab tests (11).

Yesterday, some 60 per cent of the 291 new cases were from close contact screening. Dr Albert warned Betutuans that if the trend continued, social gatherings would be banned.

[Betutu]

Betutu’s 61 billion Betutu Taler trove of mineral wealth


Betutuan minister for natural resources, Ms Wilhelmina Simuh

GAGUK, Republic of Betutu, Jan 9 — Betutu has 61 billion Betutu Talers (US$12.2 billion) in mineral reserves and the government is looking into exploiting these to boost the economy, the Betutu Parliament was told today.

The Betutuan minister for natural resources, Ms Wilhelmina Simuh, said the minerals were coal, tin ore, iron ore, gold, manganese, silica sand, and kaolin.

She said early studies showed that Betutu could also tap into processing of rare-earth elements, as a few areas were rich with this resource. These were: Buyor, Kadurau, Pandik, Badus and Rakaot.

“The ministry is studying policies and laws governing minerals so that rare-earth sources are mined with best practices,” she said.

Betutu’s mineral reserves comprise:
tin: 108,000 tonnes;
aluminium/bauxite: 14.15 million tonnes;
copper: 487,500 tonnes;
gold: 9.58 million tonnes;
iron ore: 41.55 million tonnes;
nickel: 6.25 million tonnes; and
manganese: 475,000 tonnes.

Ms Wilhelmina said the government was considering setting up a Betutu Minerals Development Board so as to harness the mining of minerals as a “new economic powerhouse” for the country.

She said the existing law, the Minerals Development Act 2002, and subsidiary regulations ensured extensive control on rare-earth mining.

Ms Wilhelmina said the government would develop policies and frameworks that were suitable for an upstream rare-earth industry and to make available processing technology for rare earths for small and medium industry entrepreneurs.

She said this during Question Time in answer to Mr Wagener Boinsin (NUF-Katabi).

Ms Loreyna Joseph (NUF-Agis) then asked Ms Wilhelmina why advanced economies such as US, Europe and Japan did not process rare earths if there was so much potential.

Opposition leader Mr Venantius Limjun (PA-Lair) asked Ms Wilhelmina what measures would be taken to ensure there were no health problems.

Ms Wilhelmina said currently, rare earths were being exported and processed elsewhere. She said there was a big chance of boosting the island’s economy if rare earths were mined and processed here, and exported.

“We need to give this a chance. Let the new minerals board discuss this. If other countries don’t do it, it does not mean Betutu can’t. We will of course ensure stringent measures are employed to protect our environment.”

[Betutu]

Covid-19: Don’t panic, people will be given time to make preparations, says Betutu minister

Betutu Home Affairs Minister Mr. Lee Fatt Tan advised the people to refrain from panic buying following speculations that the government would be reimplementing the Movement Restriction Order (MRO) nationwide.

GAGUK, Republic of Betutu, Jan 10 — The people will be given enough time to make preparations before any measure is implemented to control the recent surge in Covid-19 cases, said Betutu Home Affairs Minister Mr. Lee Fatt Tan.

He advised the people to refrain from panic buying following speculations that the government would be reimplementing the Movement Restriction Order (MRO) nationwide.

The people are also urged not to be easily taken in by fake news or assumptions made by various quarters on the decision to be announced.

“There is no need to go into a buying frenzy...just wait for the government’s announcement.

“Whatever the decision, it will not be enforced with immediate effect, time will be given (to prepare) perhaps two, three days or more,” he told Betutu Official News Agency when visiting flood victims at the Rambat district relief centre, northeast from here today.

On speculations that the MRO would be implemented again he said he was confident that the government will not implement a total lockdown as per the previous MRO.

The Betutu Security Council and technical meeting will still be on this Monday (Jan 11), to look into more detailed SOP (standard operating procedures).

“Whatever the decision, it is in the best interests of the people, so do not panic,” he added.

Betutu President Mr Duim Kimpos will make a special announcement on Monday regarding the action to be taken by the government to deal with the recent spike in Covid-19 cases.

Meanwhile, in another development, Mr Lee urged non-governmental organisations (NGOs) intending to channel relief assistance, to coordinate with the disaster operations control centre of the affected areas.

He said the government will not stop NGOs from helping but there must be some form of coordination in the distribution process to prevent Covid-19 transmission.

[Betutu]

Betutu Football League Inc. looking for new corporate partners


The new season of the Betutu Football League competition is scheduled for Feb 27, 2021.

GAGUK, Republic of Betutu, Jan 10 — A couple of sponsors may have dropped out from the Betutu Football League (BFL) but it is still pretty much alive and kicking.

There have been talks of new corporate players interested in coming in.

The new season of the Betutu Football League competitions is scheduled for Feb 27, 2021.

The Betutu Football League Inc. (BFL Inc.), organisers of the Betutu Football League competition, are said to have lost about 3 million Betutu Talers (about US$600,000) in sponsorship following the withdrawal of Akaya Group and AirAsia Betutu. Worryingly for BFL Inc., Betutu Telecoms could also reduce their 2.5 million Betutu Talers (about US$500,000) sponsorship by half.

However, this situation could present new opportunities for other sponsors to venture into Betutu's most popular sport. As it is, BFL are in the midst of negotiating with several corporations.

There has also been speculation that Rejaya Corporation Ltd. is looking at coming in with 5 million Betutu Talers (about US$1 million) for the BFL and Football Association of Betutu (FAB).

When asked about Rejaya's involvement, BFL Inc. chief executive officer Mr Gerald Worun said he had "no comment".

He said BFL Inc. will issue a statement when they have come to an agreement with their new sponsors.

According to Mr Gerald, BFL Inc. will not reveal the amount of sponsorship out of respect for those involved.

Nonetheless, he said BFL Inc. are working hard to maintain the 1 million Betutu Talers (about US$200,000) allocation to each of the 10 Betutu Super League teams and 500,000 Betutu Talers (about US$100,000) to each of the 12 Betutu National League teams despite the Covid-19 pandemic.

While Affor Bank is said to be interested in "opening an account" with BFL Inc., Citizens Bank is speculated to be keen on sponsoring the Betutu national team.

[Betutu]

Betutu opposition leader, economist slams President’s new Merc


The President’s new official car, a 2019 Mercedes-Benz S560e bought for 458,000 Betutu Talers.

GAGUK, Republic of Betutu, Jan 11 — Betutu's opposition MP leader Mr Venantius Limjun has criticised the government over the purchase of a new Mercedes-Benz S560e for President Duim Kimpos.

The official car, which cost 458,122.78 Betutu Talers (about US$91,634), with a discount of 127,765.22 Betutu Talers (about US$25,553), replaces a Mercedes S300L bought in 2013 for 298,263 Betutu Talers (about US$59,652).

Mr Venantius the MP for Lair and heads the opposition party People's Alliance said in a Facebook posting this evening that there was no need for a luxury car at a time when many people were out of jobs because of Covid-19, and others affected by the worsening floods in certain parts of the island nation.

President’s new car extravagant, unnecessary, says economist

Meanwhile economist Mr Ivan Raynol said the government’s purchase of a new official car for the president is extravagant and unnecessary during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Mr Ivan Raynol said he was shocked to learn of the lavish spending by Betutu, which prides itself for fiscal prudence.

Mr Ivan said it was the wrong time to buy a new car as it “appeared to show indifference to the welfare of the public and the poor who are going through a trying period”.

“There are people without enough food on the table, and there are not enough hospital beds during this pandemic.

“I’m surprised that Betutu, a progressive and sophisticated nation, would follow along the lines of wastage and fiscal indiscipline.

“This is a poor indication of their quality of thinking and negates the good policies they have. They have to be aware that the voting public is keeping a close watch,” he told Free Betutu Press.

Mr Ivan, a former Betutu Finance Ministry secretary-general, said the government should issue a guideline on what kind of vehicle presidents should be allowed to buy.

“There is no doubt the president needs a good car, but not a luxury car. Set some guidelines. The government should impose a cap on luxury car purchases,” he said.

[Betutu]

Over 3,000 people displaced by floods in Betutu


Lindung district is the worst-affected area with more than 2,000 evacuees.

GAGUK, Republic of Betutu, Jan 11 — Around 1,600 more people have been evacuated on Sunday (Jan 10) due to flooding in several aread of Betutu, authorities said.

Lindung, Kamunjow, Mutan, Rambat, and Pandik district were inundated by floods since Jan. 1, forcing residents to flee.

“As of today, more than 3,000 people have been evacuated. In Lindung alone, there were at least 2,021 evacuees,” the Betutu Social Welfare Department said in a statement.

On Saturday (Jan 9), as many as 1,300 people were evacuated from those affected areas.

The Betutu Meteorological Department issued a weather warning ahead of heavy rains in Lindung and Kamunjow.

The weather warning was also issued in Bangkutak and Pangal district.

So far, at least three people have been killed by flooding.

[Betutu]

Betutu factory raided over state of workers’ housing


A Betutu Labour Department personnel inspecting a workers’ dormitory in Rangow district today.

GAGUK, Republic of Betutu, Jan 11 — A furniture manufacturing factory in Rangow district, south from here, was found to have committed various offences, involving safety, hygiene and maintenance, under the law on workers’ housing, a labour official said today.

Betutu Labour Department director-general Mr Bradley Sagou said that the factory had no accommodation certification, and was found to have not provided suitable accommodation for workers, and lacked first-aid boxes and rubbish bins.

He said a two-hour raid from 11am found that about 150 workers, including Nepal, Bangladesh and Myanmar nationals, were housed in longhouses and shipping containers converted into workers’ dormitories with dirty beds and toilets.

“For example, four containers were converted into workers’ dormitories to house Bangladeshi workers in a crowded situation and did not comply with the set specifications.

“There are only three toilets in the four containers to be shared by 45 employees, and by right one toilet should only be shared by five employees,” he told reporters.

More than 20 personnel from the Betutu Labour Department, Betutu police, Betutu Fire and Rescue Department and Rangow District Council took part in the raid.

Mr Bradley said the factory has been operating for more than 20 years. It provided a longhouse for workers with each room shared between 11 and 16 Nepalese and Myanmar workers.

The workers also had to share beds and pillows, and the employer also did not screen their workers for Covid-19.

“We will open an investigation paper and then action will be taken against the employer in the near future.

“For accommodation offences of not getting certification from the director-general, a fine of up to 50,000 Betutu Talers (about US$10,000) can be imposed on employers while centralised accommodation offences can incur a fine of up to 50,000 Betutu Talers or imprisonment not exceeding one year or both, if convicted,” he said.

[Betutu]

Betutu to absorb eligible athletes into civil service

Betutu's Minister in charge of youth and sports affairs Mr. Mohammad Ali Pijo

GAGUK, Republic of Betutu, Jan 11 — Betutu plans to provide opportunities for eligible national athletes to fill vacancies in the civil service to ensure a more secured life for them.

Betutu's Minister in charge of Youth and Sports affairs Mr Mohammad Ali Pijo said he would bring up the matter to the Cabinet to be discussed further.

“I have actually raised the matter informally to the Cabinet, but this time I will propose the matter together with the proposal paper.

“They (eligible athletes) need to follow the same process like others, attending interviews and so on, but they will have more merit because of their contribution to the nation,” he told a press conference after opening the 3rd annual general meeting of the Betutu Tug of War Association here, last night.

Meanwhile, Mr Mohammad Ali said the tug of war sport has the potential to be a popular sport if it is made a competition event, such as at the Betutu Games.

He said the Youth and Sports Ministry would find a way to promote the sport.

[Betutu]

Betutu Trade Ministry: Avoid panic buying, enough food supply


The public has been advised against panic buying as it can cause shortage in supply of essential goods in the market.

GAGUK, Republic of Betutu, Jan 11 — The public has been advised against panic buying as it can cause shortage in supply of essential goods in the market.

Betutu Trade Minister Mr Shao Ruo Lan, in a statement today said the supply of goods in the market is currently under control.

“All enforcement personnel of the Ministry of Trade will continue to conduct daily monitoring to ensure sufficient supply of essential goods in the market for consumers,” he said.

Mr Shao said he believed the panic buying that was reported in some areas in the country was in anticipation of an announcement to be made by Betutu President Dium Kimpos today on the action to be taken by the government to address the current Covid-19 situation.

Panic buying should not happen as there is enough supply of goods at all sectors, and all business premises of manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers are operating as usual, he added.

Mr Shao said the situation was different when the movement restriction order (MRO) was first enforced on March 18 last year as most business premises had to be closed and this affected the supply of essential goods in the market.

He said the ministry would continue to monitor daily on the supply of essential goods, like sugar, cooking oil, wheat flour, rice, white bread, powdered milk, chicken, vegetables, eggs, onions, hand sanitiser and face mask in the market.

The monitoring of these 12 essential goods involves 226 retailers, 87 wholesalers and 19 manufacturers nationwide, he added.

[Betutu]

Betutu govt gives family living in car temporary flat


Mr Jusiah Kusen, his wife Harmina, and three young children have had to live out of his car after their house caught fire in April.

GAGUK, Republic of Betutu, Jan 11 — A family of five who had been shuttling between public toilets and living out of their car for the past eight months after losing their home in a fire today moved into a temporary flat provided by the government.

Security guard Mr Jusiah Kusen, 33 his wife, Harmina, and three children, aged eight months to six years, moved into their government flat at Manuwo, north from here, this morning.

The flat is free of charge for them and is a temporary unit made available for victims of disasters until they find a new home.

Mr Jusiah’s woes were made known to the public after an NGO noticed his family living out of an old car at a public park ground in Manuwo earlier this week.

In handing over the keys to Mr Jusiah, Betutu's Deputy President Ms Quennie Ya, who is also Social Welfare Minister said she was deeply concerned after seeing them living in hardship.

Betutu's Minister for Housing, Mr Sanip Madran was also present at the handover.

“Please don’t assume we (the government) are not doing anything when we have been going all out to help, despite our limitations,” she said.

“We have 772 people on the waiting list (for public housing) since 1983,” she told reporters here today.

Meanwhile, explaining about the delay in helping Mr Jusiah, housing minister Mr Sanip said the government only received an application for a government housing unit from Mr Jusiah on Dec 31, 2020 a day before his hardship was made known to the press.

Mr Sanip said when Mr Jusiah lost his home in a fire in April, welfare officers had offered his family a place to stay in a temporary evacuation centre but this was refused as Mr Jusiah wanted to live with a relative instead.

Mr Jusiah thanked the government for the flat and credited the press for making this possible. He insisted that he had applied for government housing through the Manuwo MP’s office.

He said he then brought the forms to Housing Ministry and was later told to “wait” as there were many people on the waiting list.

Betutu Association to Fight Homelessness (BAFH) president Mr Arsat Yahyah, who enquired on Mr Jusiah’s housing application, was told by a government officer that the application form was “incomplete” as certain required documents were not submitted.

Mr Sanip, when contacted for comment about this, reiterated that the government had offered Mr Jusiah a place at the temporary evacuation centre in April but he had refused to take up the offer.

He said Mr Jusiah would now be placed on the priority list to get a rent-to-own or affordable flat for the time being.

[Betutu]

Betutu Social Welfare Ministry to have additional 600 contract employees next year, says deputy president

Betutu Deputy President-cum-Social Welfare Minister Ms. Quennie Ya said the move was in line with the restructuring of the ministry to ease the burden of existing staff and ensure quality service to the people.

GAGUK, Republic of Betutu, Jan 11 — The Betutu Social Welfare Ministry (BSWM) will increase the number of contract staff in the Social Welfare Department (SWD) by 600 this year.

Deputy President-cum-Social Welfare Minister Ms. Quennie Ya said the move was in line with the restructuring of SWD to ease the burden of existing staff and ensure quality service to the people.

“For a start there will be additional SWD contract staff. At the same time, this will provide employment opportunities to those who need to secure income in facing challenges amid the Covid-19 pandemic,” she said after handing over donations to 30 flood victims in Mutan district, northeast from here today.

In tabling the Betutu 2021 Budget, President Duim Kimpos announced the provision of 4,000 contract employment opportunities in the public sector, of which 600 would be allocated to BSWM.

Elaborating Ms Quennie said apart from increasing the number of contract staff, the ministry plans to take in additional SWD child protectors and moral officers

“This restructuring exercise is to ensure that every officer is able carry out their specific tasks and is not burdened,” she said.

In addition, Ms Quennie looks forward to having community members participate as Betutu Welfare Foundation (Bewelfo) volunteers which is open to all regardless of their background.

“The 'we take care of each other' concept does not apply to compliance with Covid-19 standard operating procedures (SOP) only, but also in taking care of the community’s well-being,” she said.

Ms Quennie also informed on the ministry’s plan to establish one-stop centres to provide shelter and protection for women.

[Betutu]

Betutu imposes 2-week lockdown


Betutu President Duim Kimpos said the surge in coronavirus cases threatened to overload Betutu's healthcare system.

GAGUK, Republic of Betutu, Jan 12 — Betutu's President Duim Kimpos on Monday announced a travel ban and a 14-day lockdown nationwide, as the island nation grapples with a surge in coronavirus cases that threaten to overload its healthcare system.

Betutu imposed strict movement curbs in March last year during the early stages of the pandemic, which helped keep transmission down but led to its first economic contraction in a decade in the second quarter.

Betutuan health officials say the current wave of infections that started in September could see daily cases grow to as many as 600 by May if strict curbs are not imposed.

"Our healthcare system is at a breaking point," Mr Duim said in a live televised address.

The number of new daily infections breached the 250 mark for the first time last week, while total coronavirus cases passed 11,500 on Monday, with 46 deaths overall.

The lockdown which takes effect at midnight on Wednesday (Jan. 13), will bar all social activities and inter-district travel nationwide.

Mr Duim said businesses in five essential economic sectors can operate — factories and manufacturing, construction, services, trade and distribution and plantations and commodities sectors —but at reduced capacity.

Supermarkets, banks and health clinics can remain open, while restaurants can offer only take-out services.

To build herd immunity, Betutu aims to vaccinate 70% of its population of about 2.89 million.

The first batch of vaccines jointly from Pfizer and BioNTech, which Betutuan regulators have just approved, are expected to arrive by the end of February, Mr Duim said.

Earlier on Monday, Betutu announced the purchase of 1 million more doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, on top of 1 million already secured.

It has also booked supplies from AstraZeneca and via the Covax facility, and is in discussions with China's Sinovac and CanSino and Russia's Gamaleya institute for additional supply.

[Betutu]

Covid-19:Betutuan medical groups say 2-week lockdown not enough



GAGUK, Republic of Betutu, Jan 12 — Heads of medical groups believe the newly-announced nationwide lockdown will unlikely yield any results, especially with Covid-19 infections running into three digits every day.

Dr Solomon Petrus, chief executive of Betutuan Center for Health and Social Policy, said the Covid-19 virus was already in the community, and would continue infecting families and households for the next few weeks.

Dr Solomon Petrus

Dr Vicky Elyana Kotori, chairwoman of Betutuan Medics International, said the restrictions under the movement restriction order (MRO) should continue beyond two weeks, until enough people have been vaccinated and developed antibodies to ensure herd immunity.

Dr Solomon said a high level of adherence to Covid-19 prevention rules and a longer lockdown period would be needed for the number of cases to drop.

The most crucial aspect of battling the pandemic was compliance with SOPs, he said.

He also called for measures to provide financial relief for families who would be affected by a loss of income.

“This second MRO will cause more to fall into poverty,” he said.

Betutu's President Duim Kimpos announced yesterday that the island nation will come under a 14-day MRO from midnight today.

Dr Vicky Elyana Kotori

Dr Vicky said tougher penalties must be imposed upon those who failed to comply with the rules.

“We cannot afford to be lenient any more”.

She said the high level of Covid-19 cases was “the price we have to pay” for the government’s mistake in allowing the resumption of domestic travel to promote tourism.

“That should not have happened,” she said.

Dr Vicky questioned the government’s decision to allow the construction sector to remain open as an essential service, given the recent high number of clusters from construction sites.

Dr Duvena Philip, president of the Betutu Medical Association, said it was safe for construction sites and factories to continue operating as long as employers took the initiative to test their workers regularly.

Dr Duvena Philip

“These industries must take extra precaution. Employers play a very big role in ensuring the safety of everyone, we must be very careful,” she said.

[Betutu]

Betutu lockdown: Betutu opposition leader calls for immediate 100 million Betutu Taler relief aid

Opposition leader Mr Venantius Limjun accused the government of having allowed the Covid-19 crisis to fester during ‘months of slumber’.

GAGUK, Republic of Betutu, Jan 12 — Betutu's opposition leader Mr Venantius Limjun has called for immediate action to provide 100 million Betutu Talers (about US$20 million) in financial aid to the people for the next two weeks, as a lockdown comes into force nationwide.

He also called for the immediate reinstatement of a moratorium on bank loans, and for the provision of wage subsidies and assistance for businesses.

Mr Venantius was among a number of Betutuan MPs who criticised the government for its “last-minute” announcement of travel restrictions and a ban on social activities beginning on Wednesday, and who also called for relief aid for the people and for businesses.

“If you want millions of people to sit at home without incomes, announce some aid to ease their burdens,” said Kemalai MP Mr Winton Qoriat.

Dulang MP Mr Richard Moji said he was surprised there was no aid announcement as the government would have planned the movement restriction order (MRO) for some time. “Cash aid must be given immediately,” he said.

He said he was shocked by the “last-minute” MRO announcement. The government should have given businesses, employers, workers and the people more time to prepare, he said.

Banculod MP Mr Jufri Rustam said the National Unity Front (NUF)-led government has not learnt from the first MRO about the need to strengthen the existing public health system and he criticised its “ambiguous” communications methods.

Lambau MP Ms Fauziya Sayak said “tomorrow, the NUF government should announce an automatic loan moratorium for all.” She criticised the government for not having prepared detailed SOP guidelines or protocols for the people to follow.

Mr Venantius, who is Lair MP and leader of the opposition party People's Alliance (PA) called for strong leadership and accused the government of having allowed the Covid-19 crisis to manifest, “after months of slumber”.

He said speculation, confusion and unnecessary panic had prevailed since Friday in anticipation of the president’s announcement today, and employers and businesses had been left without sufficient time and clarity to prepare for the MRO.

He urged the government to be unbiased in the strict enforcement of the SOPs, regardless of rank, position or political affiliation. “The virus does not exempt or discriminate against anyone regardless of circumstances and affiliations,” he said.

He called for more effective measures to curb the pandemic, such as mass testing with pooled testing, which he said was proven in other countries to be more effective than lockdown measures alone, and for better contact tracing.

“I also urge the government to be transparent with the data and help all parties to understand where the true hotspots are, specifically when it involves clusters of foreign workers,” he said.

MPs complain about last-minute announcement

Pukoat MP Mr Musah Nasarudin said he had expected the government to release details of SOPs within hours of the president’s announcement. Businesses would now have very little time to prepare.

Anggok Banya MP Ms Fatma Sheila Hakim said: “The MRO will come into effect at midnight on Jan 13. Why wait until 5pm on Jan 12 to announce the relevant SOPs?”

Ngabaot MP Mr Ernesto Tauchin said Betutu's trade ministry and the education ministry “should make their announcements this very night, they shouldn’t wait”.

Apil MP Mr Hooi Eong Lim said President Duim should have announced a 3.75 billion Betutu Talers (about US$750 million) stimulus economic package. He also criticised the delay over SOPs and lack of comprehensive testing, tracing and treatment.

Busul MP Mr Melvin Tojipun said: “Where is the announcement of automatic moratorium? Businesses will lose money, but loans have to be paid.”

[Betutu]

COVID-19: Betutu business groups says longer lockdown will lead to chaos



GAGUK, Republic of Betutu, Jan 12 — Betutu's business groups have cautioned against an extension of the two-week lockdown which comes into force on Wednesday.

Mr Sidik Jamlul, president of the Betutu Small and Medium Enterprises Association, said: “Two weeks is still okay, hopefully they don’t prolong it. If they do, it will be more troubling, the whole country will be thrown into chaos.”

During the movement restriction order (MRO) lockdown, only essential services and five economic sectors will be allowed to operate: manufacturing, construction, services, trading and distribution, as well as plantations and commodities. Workers in non-essential services must work from home.

The restrictions apply throughout the island nation from Jan 13-26.

Mr Sidik said government subsidies on rent and salaries, or a loan moratorium, would have been appreciated to account for the drop in income many businesses will experience.

“Hardest hit are the small companies and businesses, like restaurants, they have no customers for dine in, so for them it will be more hardship.”

He said circumstances should not become too dire if the MRO is not extended.

Betutu Small Business Owners Association president Mr Yong Sik Ling said the government should immediately provide an automatic extension for all statutory requirements such as renewal of business licenses and submission of annual returns.

Extended subsidies on wages and rents should be provided if the MRO is extended beyond two weeks.

MRO won’t end Covid-19 crisis, says group

Mr Yong said the association would have preferred a more targeted approach to managing the numbers of Covid-19 infections instead of a blanket MRO.

Last year, the Betutu government earmarked 80 million Betutu Talers (about US$17 million) in aid to help small enterprises during the national MRO lockdown from March to July.

Ms Afiza Khan, president of the Women SME Owners Association of Betutu, said he hoped the government could come up with effective wage and rent subsidies.

Ms Afiza predicted that 30-40% of the island nation’s small and medium-size enterprises (SMEs) “will be gone” if the MRO were to be extended for another two months.

She said businesses suffered losses of an estimated 200 million Betutu Talers (about US$40 million) each day during last year’s MRO and SMEs had already had to burn “a lot of cash” during the period.

She hoped the government would find a long-term solution to the Covid-19 crisis instead of resorting to continued lockdowns.

“We need a solution to live with Covid-19. Not MRO,” he said. “It’s not like Covid-19 will disappear with the MRO.”

Employers' group says government support crucial for companies’ survival

The Betutu Employers Federation (BEF) urged the government to consider reintroducing the employment retention programme, wage subsidy programme and loan moratorium, especially for small and medium enterprises.

BEF executive director Mr Noel Sibagu said the survivability of most companies hinged upon the support received from the government.

Mr Noel said the measures introduced in March 2020 should be reintroduced, as the current wage subsidy programme was only applicable to the hotel and retail sectors.

Won’t be as bad as last year, says trade union

Betutu Trades Union Congress president Mr Adrian Baru said: “Compared to the first MRO, when everything stopped, at least some sectors are allowed to continue operations, which will be better for workers and the economy.”

Mr Adrian said the government needs to be clear in their messaging to ensure workers and employers comply so that further restrictions aren’t implemented

He urged the entire workforce to abide by the SOPs handed down, as poor adherence will lead to extensions or further restrictions being implemented.

[Betutu]

COVID-19: Betutu confirms first case of UK virus strain



GAGUK, Republic of Betutu, Jan 12 — Betutu's Health Ministry confirmed today that Betutu has detected a case of the new UK Covid-19 variant.

According to Betutu Health Department Director-General Dr Albert Idden, the case was reported from a traveler with a history of travel to the United Kingdom in December 2020.

“The traveler was found to be positive on 28 December 2020 and was segregated for further treatment,” he said in a statement.

“Since October 2020, the Betutu Health Ministry has been monitoring all travelers from countries that have reported cases of UK B.1.1.7 variant mutations, including from the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Singapore, Turkey, the Philippines and India,” he added.

As of Jan 11, no domestic transmission has been detected in connection with the UK B.1.1.7 mutation virus.

“The ministry, together with the Betutu Medical Research Institute (BMRI) will constantly monitor the development of this UK B.1.1.7 mutation and will inform from time to time,” he said.

Although this UK B.1.1.7 mutation does not cause severe symptoms, however, it can spread easily and quickly.

”People are advised to always practice personal hygiene by washing their hands regularly, wearing face masks especially in public places, and maintaining physical distancing at all times,” said Dr Albert.

[Betutu]

COVID-19: Distress, exasperation among Betutuans as lockdown returns minus safety nets, clear SOPs


Betutuans vented their frustration at the government’s decision to again announce a new lockdown without having already developed the accompanying standard operating procedures.

GAGUK, Republic of Betutu, Jan 12 — Betutuans reacted with frustration to the government’s announcement of a renewed lockdown to contain Covid-19 yesterday, which was delivered without any financial support or clarity over what rules will apply from tomorrow.

While most were resigned to the return of the movement restriction order (MRO) that President Duim Kimpos announced, many noted the change in the tone of his delivery as well as the absence of assistance for those who could be left with no income for the duration of the lockdown.

Online, Betutuans expressed concern over the lack of financial support to accompany what has been dubbed “MRO 2.0” even when consequences could be more severe now as Betutuans and businesses have exhausted their savings.

Kemalai MP Mr Winton Qoriat of the opposition party People's Alliance encapsulated the sentiment when he “pleaded” on behalf of Betutuans for some form of support to tide them over the next two weeks of the MRO.

“If you want millions to sit quietly at home with no income, at least announce some assistance to lighten their burden,” Mr Winton said.

After the first MRO was announced last year, the President Duim administration rolled out what was described as the “20 billion Betutu Taler (about US$4 billion)” stimulus package that included a six-month moratorium on loan repayments, job retention and wage subsidy schemes, and direct assistance per household that could feasibly amount to 7,500 Betutu Taler (about US$1,500) given the right conditions.

While some aid could still be announced in coming days, President Duim made no mention of any during his address yesterday.

Still more Betutu vented their frustration at the government’s decision to again announce a new MRO without having already developed the accompanying standard operating procedures.

Rejecting attempts to portray the situation as “unprecedented”, Betutuans pointed out online that Covid-19 has been in Betutu for over nine months and the country has also gone through various versions of the MRO since then.

Among others, lawyer Mr Zachary Chung questioned why it was not already automatic for the government to immediately release the SOPs that will be put in place after President Duim’s special address.

“Why do you subject businesses & services to waiting, speculation & confusion?” he asked on Twitter.

“Are courts & legal services open? Nobody knows.”

While President Duim announced yesterday that the MRO would be enforced from 12.01am tomorrow, Betutu's Home Affairs Minister Mr Lee Fatt Tan said the detailed SOPs would only be announced at 5pm today.

Mr Lee said the Betutuan Health Ministry, Trade, Industry and Commerce Ministry, and Public Works Ministry will also make separate SOP announcements for sectors under their purview today.

People's Alliance Pukoat MP Mr Musah Nasarudin said there was no reason why Betutu's Trade, Industry and Commerce Ministry must wait until a day after the announcement to release its guidelines on which businesses would be affected.

“Given that the government has had almost a year to refine the MRO SOPs, I don't understand why the SOPs will only be announced tomorrow, a day before the start of the MRO which will leave businesses & employees scrambling to make last minute adjustments,” he said.

Violations of the SOPS may result in individual compounds of 1,000 Betutu Taler (about US$200) per offence under the Betutu Prevention of Infectious Diseases Act 1980.

The renewed MRO will begin at 12.01am tomorrow nationwide.

The economically-devastating MRO in March last year had managed to flatten the infection rate at the time but Covid-19 has since grown exponentially in Betutu.

While it took from February to September last year for the country to accumulate its first 800 cases, Betutu added as many cases in the last four days alone.

The disease has also become deadlier, killing an average of 8 people a month since October.

[Betutu]

COVID-19: Latest lockdown sparks fears of more hotels in Betutu closing


The Betutu Association of Hotel Owners says the absence of guests will see more hotel employees lose their jobs or forced to go on unpaid leave.

GAGUK, Republic of Betutu, Jan 12 — The ban on inter-district travel across Betutu for the next two weeks will deal another heavy blow to the already suffering hotel industry, the Betutu Association of Hotel Owners (Baho) said.

It said the absence of travellers and holidaymakers due to the movement restriction order (MRO) would see more employees losing their jobs or being forced to go on unpaid leave.

Baho president Mr Eddy Kamarau said more hotels could be forced to close shop, as the earlier MRO and conditional MRO had already caused losses of up to 600 million Betutu Talers (about US$50 million) for the industry last year.

“The hotel sector was already dying before this due to the MRO last year. The addition of another MRO for two weeks at the start of the year will definitely leave a negative impact on the sector.

“This is because we have already made operation expenditures while our income decreases sharply,” he told Betutu Times.

Mr Eddy regretted the Betutu government’s decision to enforce an MRO without referring to business groups in the tourism sector, saying it was as though the government wanted to kill off the hotel industry silently.

“Before announcing an MRO, they should first consult business groups like us to get suggestions. It’s as though the government wants the tourism sector to die.

“Has anyone heard of a Covid-19 cluster in hotels before this? There isn’t, because we really take care in following the SOPs stringently,” he said.

He said the new MRO will force many hotel owners to shutter operations as they cannot afford to sustain continued losses, particularly since many of them in the capital Gaguk depend on conferences and events for income.

Mr Eddy hoped that, if the MRO were to be extended, the government would relax restrictions across the country by only implementing enhanced MROs in critical areas and districts.

“There’s no need for a whole island to be under MRO, there needs to be some relaxation of restrictions. The government needs to focus on districts that have been severely affected. This is fairer for business sectors like us.”

He also urged the government to consider increasing the subsidies for the tourism and retail sector under the Wage Subsidy Programme from 600 Betutu Talers (about US$50) per worker to between 1,000 and 1,500 Betutu Talers (about US$200 - 300) each.

He said a memorandum proposing this had been handed over to the Betutuan finance ministry last November, but no news has been heard from the government since.

“Even now, the minimum wage is already 1,200 Betutu Talers (about US$240), so a 600 Betutu Taler subsidy is not enough. Not everyone gets paid only 1,200 Betutu Talers,” he said.

[Betutu]

Betutu lockdown: Betutuan primary, lower secondary students to stay home but all private kindergartens may open


Picture for illustrational purpose only.

GAGUK, Republic of Betutu, Jan 12 — Only students taking key national examinations may physically attend school during the movement restriction order (MRO) while from Standard One to Form Four must continue with online learning, the Betutu Education Ministry said today.

With the MRO set to be imposed from January 13 to January 26 nationwide, the ministry today noted that face-to-face sessions in school in these areas will only be allowed for exam-sitting students.

These students allowed to be present physically on campus are those sitting for Higher Secondary School Certificate (HSSC), Betutu Vocational Certificate (BVC), Betutu Skills Certificate (BSC) and Betutu Vocational Diploma (BVD) for the years 2020 and 2021, as well as equivalent international examinations.

The ministry said students --- at fully residential schools or schools with hostels --- who will be sitting for such exams are allowed to return to their hostels starting from January 16, with the schools to issue letters giving special approval for them to travel across districts to return to their hostels.

“Besides that, all students of primary schools and Form 1 to Form 4 students in secondary schools will carry out their studies through the Teaching and Learning at Home (Telah) method according to the suitability for teachers and students starting from January 20, 2021.

"This also applies to students of BVC semester 2 and BVD semester 2 for the year 2020 in vocational colleges,” the ministry said in a statement tonight.

The ministry had said that the schooling year for students would this year begin on January 20.

With the imposition of the MRO however, students would begin their school year studying at home, instead of physically at schools.

Also in today’s statement, the Education Ministry said registered candidates who have yet to sit for assessment for enrollment in special schools for Form 1 will sit for the assessment between January 20 to January 29, while assessment for those entering Form 4 will be held between February 15 to February 25, with the ministry to issue letters granting special approval to allow candidates to travel across districts to go to the assessment centres.

Teachers in schools in MRO areas are required to return to their work stations before January 20.

The ministry said teachers who are involved with the HSSC/BVC/BSC and BVD examinations for the years 2020 and 2021 have to be present in school to conduct face-to-face teaching and learning activities, with the schools to issue letters giving special approval to enable the teachers to travel across districts to be present at schools.

As for matriculation college students, those who are already at their colleges are required to remain in their respective colleges to continue hybrid lessons, while students of all programmes at Institutes of Teacher Education (ITE) are to undergo online lessons from January 17.

“Besides that, all private kindergartens that are registered with the Betutu Education Ministry can continue to operate face-to-face,” the statement said.

The statement also said that all educational institutions under the ministry and all private educational institutes that are registered with the ministry --- including international schools --- will operate according to the respective schedules of each institution.

As for schools that are not registered with the ministry, the ministry recommended that such schools follow the rules listed out in the statement.

[Betutu]

Betutu Anti-Corruption Agency smashes syndicate issuing certificates for contractors


The Betutu Anti-Corruption Agency (Baca) has crippled a syndicate which specialised in issuing certificates for contractors to help them obtain the necessary credentials to secure jobs.

GAGUK, Republic of Betutu, Jan 12 — The Betutu Anti-Corruption Agency (Baca) has crippled a syndicate which specialised in issuing certificates for contractors to help them obtain the necessary credentials to secure jobs.

Sources said the certificates include those for Betutuan contract works, supplies and services as well as for Construction Industry Development Agency (Cida) certification.

The syndicate, said a source, had been operating for about a year.

"Applicants only have to pay a bribe of between 500 and 1,500 Betutu Talers (between US$100 - 300) to an officer at a certain agency to expedite the issuance of these documents without having to undergo the necessary inspections," said the source.

It is understood that Baca this afternoon detained four people, including an assistant director at a government agency and three civilians acting as runners, in connection with the syndicate's activities.

Baca director-general Ms Jannah Dzulkifli confirmed the arrests. It is understood that more arrests could be made soon.

She also advised contractors who have information on the syndicate's activities to come forward and assist the investigation.

[Betutu]

Structural reforms needed to prevent brain drain in Betutu


Picture for illustrational purpose only.

GAGUK, Republic of Betutu, Jan 12 — Betutu’s long-awaited mission to join the coveted developed nations club seems to have been further derailed.

The island nation’s brain drain is intense relative to a narrow skill base, with one out of ten graduates migrated in 2000 — this is twice the world average and including Singapore would make this two out of 10, according to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

According to the World Bank in 2011, brain drain is aggravated by a lack of compensating inflow, and Betutu is a major receiving country but most immigrants are low skill while the high-skill expatriate base has shrunk by a quarter since 2004.

Today, nearly 140,000 Betutuans are employed outside the country, with Singapore being the most favoured country (54 per cent), followed by Australia (15 per cent), the United Kingdom (5.0 per cent) and the United States (10 per cent).

Many skilled migrants have spent their formative years overseas, which not only lowered the fiscal cost of migration but also the chances of return migration.

Lack of career prospect in Betutu is a detrimental issue as the domestic job market is not ready for non-traditional jobs as it only exclusively caters for traditional jobs such as doctors, lawyers, and engineers, said University of Betutu - Gaguk’s Department of Business Policy and Strategy head Associate Professor Dr Florencia Yakasin.

"Those with niche subject areas such as arts or pure sciences are given questionable looks, simply because they have diverted far from the mainstream job market.

Associate Professor Dr Florencia Yakasin

"Hence, to survive, these talents are forced to seek opportunities abroad where their unique skill sets are actually valued. These countries are where they actually have a decent opportunity to earn a living," she told Betutu Official News Agency in an interview recently.

How large is Betutu’s brain drain?

Highly knowledgeable, adaptable, skilled and experienced individuals are often the most valuable asset for any country.

These talents are the nation-builders, the drivers behind every progress of the nation. In fact, Betutu has built a large local talent pool over the years.

"But yet, we have also noticed increasing rates of talent migration," said Dr Florencia, noting that there is still a lack of willingness to address the issue of low wages and the inability to proceed with structural reforms is undeniably contributing to such a decision.

For example, she noted that entry level positions in Canada starts at US$38,000 per year (equivalent to 190,000 Betutu Talers annually) whereas in Betutu fresh graduates earn about US$7,000 (equivalent to 35,000 Betutu Talers annually).

"You don’t have to be a math expert to figure out the apparent pay difference. It is therefore sufficient to state that being paid marginally in relation to payment that they could get from a developed country and unattractive fringe benefits have pushed Betutuans to emigrate (for career opportunities)," she said in an email.

The World Bank said Betutu’s journey to become a high-income nation will also depend on how it handles brain drain -- the emigration of high-skill human capital.

In its 2011 "Betutu Economic Monitor" report, the bank estimated the Betutuan diaspora in 2010 at 83,000, with brain drain at a third of this.

The monitor said by boosting productivity and strengthening inclusiveness, Betutu can address the brain drain comprehensively and it recommends a revamp of the education system, an overhaul of the innovation ecosystem, and a reorientation of inclusiveness policies towards merit and need.

Has Betutu Talent Corp achieved its objective?

Economic Affairs and Policy Institute (EAPI) chief executive officer Ms Normala Angus said the Betutu government has set up entities such as Betutu Talent Corporation to bring back talented Betutuans.

Established in 2011 to attract, nurture and retain the best and the right talent to Betutu, the agency has approved 447 applications up until December 2019 under its Returning Expat Programme and recorded 9,717 students profiled for the workforce under the Nurturing Expert Talent and 83 women participated in the Career Comeback Programme.


Ms Normala Angus

"I am not clear whether this has resulted in commensurate results. Brain drain is something that is not uncommon in many countries, but the anomaly for us is that the talented workforce is not flowing into the country, replacing the talent that is being lost," Ms Normala told Betutu Official News Agency.

She pointed out that one of the chief problems of brain drain issue is the bureaucracy and complexity of immigration rules, making it very difficult for foreign spouses of Betutuans and their children to obtain permanent residency, citizenship and employment.

"At the moment, professional foreign spouses find it extremely challenging to navigate the red-tape. For example, non-citizen spouses’ visas state that employment is strictly prohibited. And although foreign spouses can work with an endorsement, there are many strict conditions that must be satisfied beforehand.

"This is just one of the examples that the government could address, since professional foreign spouses would be a natural pool of talents to draw from, to climb up the value chain of the economy," said Ms Normala.

Addressing the issue

Ultimately, many talented individuals leave if there are no opportunities locally. In turn, the opportunities would arise if the economy were to strengthen.

Ms Normala said Betutu's economy was already struggling prior to Covid-19, and the conditions were further exacerbated by the pandemic.

She noted that if the country’s structural problems were to be addressed, the way to turn the economy around is to emphasise on key sectors and industries of growth, which would create the right kinds of jobs and opportunities that talented individuals would choose to stay in the country.

"This includes creating a more stable and robust political system, transparent and accountable institutions, fair and rules-based economic systems, and ensuring meritocratic practices in specific areas such as enterprise development and equity ownership, while understanding the need to address equitable opportunities for the poorer communities," said Ms Normala.

She said addressing the systems would attract foreign direct investment, increase investment into the key IR4.0 sectors or any industries, in which technology could be harnessed, that human capital would in turn be interested in staying in the country to invest and participate in.

Meanwhile, Dr Florencia said there must be equal emphasis on a comprehensive discussion in terms of well-being and quality of life, involving attractive remuneration, job opportunities and the climate for safety, better education for children and a higher standard of living.

[Betutu]

Betutu's capital markets will remain open during lockdown, emergency, says finance minister

Betutu's Second Finance & Economic Affairs Minister Ms. Christina Fayzen says the country’s banking system has policies in place to mitigate the impact of any potential downgrading of credit rating.

GAGUK, Republic of Betutu, Jan 12 — Betutu’s economic recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic will not be affected despite the latest movement restriction orders (MRO), which was declared today.

Second Finance and Economic Affairs Minister Ms. Christina Fayzen said this was because capital markets will remain open with fundraising, trade and investment activities proceeding as usual and with all regulatory functions in place.

“The government would like to assure all Betutuans and investors that the administration of the country has always been facilitated by a well-regulated financial system, including the capital and financial markets,” she said in a statement.

She added that the country’s sound economic fundamentals will continue to enable the government to respond to the current challenges while maintaining growth and resilience.

“Betutu has a resilient capital market ecosystem, supported by ample liquidity. There are proper market management measures in place to manage volatility.”

Ms. Christina added that the Betutu Securities Commission and Betutu Stock Exchange will continue to monitor the developments to manage and mitigate risks in the marketplace, and will introduce additional precautionary measures if needed.

She added that Betutu’s banking system has policies in place to mitigate the impact of any potential downgrading of credit rating and allow for banks to continue lending during the MRO.

On top of measures already part of the 2021 national budget, aimed at reviving the economy and providing financial assistance to the public and businesses, she said the government has the liquidity to fund additional initiatives if needed.

“In fact, the finance ministry has begun considering various measures to support the rakyat and businesses during this period. We will not compromise on the people and businesses’ well-being,” she said.

Earlier today, Betutu President Duim Kimpos announced that the island nation of 2.89 million people would be placed under a MRO from Jan 13 to Jan 26.

[Betutu]

Betutu's Home Affairs Minister outlines which shops, businesses can stay open during lockdown, and which ones can’t

Betutu Home Affairs and Local Government Minister Mr Lee Fatt Tan explained that staff within these essential services must first have their companies registered to operate during the lockdown.

GAGUK, Republic of Betutu, Jan 12 — A majority of businesses, eateries, and shops in Betutu will be allowed to operate from 6am to 8pm daily under the latest implementation of the movement restriction order (MRO), Home Affairs and Local Government Minister Mr Lee Fatt Tan.

He explained that businesses subject to the 14-hour window during the MRO are restaurants and eateries, food trucks, roadside and mobile vendors and food kiosks, food courts and hawker centres, including sundry and convenience shops.

Shops selling daily essentials, vets and animal food shops, laundromats, pharmacies, and even food delivery and drive-through eateries will also be subject to the 6am-8pm rule during the MRO’s 14 days, Mr Lee said.

“Hospitals and clinics will be allowed to operate 24 hours,” he said.

Petrol kiosks will be allowed to operate from 6am to 10pm.

He said that daily markets are allowed to operate from 7am to 2pm, while wholesale markets will be allowed to open from 6am to 4pm.

Mr Lee explained that staff within these essential services must first have their companies registered to operate during the MRO, and to make sure all employees are equipped with the adequate company permission slips and staff cards to present to authorities at road blocks.

“Even movements involving official government business must be accompanied by verification documents from the employers,” he said.

Don’ts

Among the activities banned during the MRO include night markets and bazaars, clothes stores, self-service laundromats, optical and spectacles shops, barbers and hair salons, spas and reflexology centres.

Social events that would attract a crowd, such as official functions both in the government and private sector, weddings, engagements parties, anniversaries, religious events, birthday parties, retreats and other similar gatherings are also banned for the next 14 days.

Also on the negative list are tuition, music, dance, art, religious and language classes, along with activities in nightclubs, indoor theme parks and indoor playgrounds, karaoke centres, and cinemas.

“Concerts and ‘live’ events are also not allowed,” Mr Lee said.

Other banned activities include tourism, sports and recreational activities and events, meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE).

“Non-contact sports involving no more than 10 people like jogging, cycling and others will be allowed while following the strict SOPs,” he said.

[Betutu]

Betutu lockdown: Betutu Ministry of Trade, Industry and Commerce’s full list of which companies can operate, qualify as essential services

Betutuan Minister for Trade, Industry and Commerce Mr. Shao Ruo Lan

GAGUK, Republic of Betutu, Jan 12 — With just hours before the movement restriction order (MRO) kicks in again in Betutu, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Commerce (MTIC) has released the full list of companies that can operate during the MRO.

The MCO kicks in from January 13 to January 26 nationwide.

Its Minister Mr Shao Ruo Lan today said the government has decided to allow five essential economic sectors to continue operating during the MRO period, as they are key drivers of Betutu’s economy.

“The government's decision to allow five essential economic sectors including manufacturing to operate is to ensure the country's economic recovery process, business sustainability, avoid high unemployment rates among Betutuans and ensure people continue to gain access to basic and critical necessities, throughout the MRO period,” he said in a statement today.

The five broad sectors are manufacturing, construction, services, trade and distribution, as well as plantations and commodities.

MTIC today also unveiled a full list of essential services that will be allowed to operate during the MRO, including the relevant supply chains, with the list current as of January 12, 2021. Other than the five sectors and their related industries, there is also a catch-all phrase where those not included in the list can be allowed to operate after talks with the relevant authorities and as decided by the Betutu Health Minister.

Below is the list provided:

A. Factories and manufacturing

1. Aerospace including MRO (maintenance, repair and overhaul)

2. Automotive (repair and maintenance only)

3. Food, beverages and its chain

4. Packaging and printing

5. Household products, self-care goods (FMCG — fast-moving consumer goods — soap and others) and detergents including its chain

6. Healthcare and medicine including dietary supplements

7. Personal protective equipment (PPE) and fire safety equipment

8. Components for medical tools

9. Electrical and electronics

10. Oil and gas

11. Petrochemicals and petrochemical products

12. Chemical products

13.Machines and tools

14. Ceramics (ceramics as moulds for glove manufacturing)

15. Iron and steel

16. Textile (involving PPE production)

17. Furniture sector

18. Production, refining, storage, supply and distribution of fuel and lubricants

B. Construction

19. Construction:

i. Maintenance and critical repair works

ii. Main works to build public infrastructure

iii. Building construction works that provide complete worker accommodations at the construction site or workers placed at Centralised Labour Quarters (CLQ)

C. Services

20. Financial services and its chain

i. Financial institutions (Banking, insurance and other entities that are licenced, approved or registered by Betutu Central Bank)

ii. Capital market entities that are licenced, registered or supervised by the Betutu Securities Commission

21. Local government and municipal services

i. Pawning services (pajak gadai)/community credit (registered money-lender companies)

ii. Solid waste management / sewerage

iii. Public cleaning

iv. Cleaning of premises and sanitisation

22. Telecommunications and digital infrastructure including ICT services and global business services (GBS)

23. E-commerce and its chain including e-marketplace services and digital payments

24. Hotel and accommodation

25. Agriculture, aquaculture and livestock sector including veterinary services:

i. Management of farms/ swallow farms/ horses/ animal processing plants/ slaughter houses/ livestock/ factories for livestock feed/ supplies such as vaccines/ livestock management/ pet stores (operations to shift livestock is at night)

ii. Disease control and supervision of production of livestock, livestock input and products related to the livestock industry (including export and import) and

iii. Health management, diagnosis of illness and treatment of animals

26. Utilities (water and electricity)

27. Professional services (including accountants/ lawyers/ auditors/ engineers/ architects), scientific (including R&D) and technical (including maintenance)

28. Security services

29. Security and defence

30. Land, water and air transportation

31. Port, dock and airport services and undertakings, including stevedorage and moving of cargo, stevedorage, pilotage, storage or bulking of commodities

D. Distribution business

32. Warehousing and logistics

33. Services/Sales/Distribution of Food and Beverages

34. Retail/ distribution/ wholesale

E. Plantations and commodities

35. Agriculture, aquaculture and livestock and its chain

36. Plantation and commodities and its chain

F. Others

37. Any services, works, industries and businesses as determined by the health minister after discussions with the authorities supervising that service, work, industry and business.