THERE is no issue with childcare centres wanting to increase fees so long as parents agree to it, said Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

The senior minister said these facilities have to bear additional costs, including for sanitisation, in the wake of Covid-19.

“I hope they can discuss with the parents and explain the hike in fees. If there is a consensus, there won’t be any issues,” he told a daily press conference today.

The Association of Registered Childcare Providers Malaysia has proposed a fee increase to ensure the centres’ survival.

President Anisa Ahmad said childcare facilities that charge a monthly fee of RM600 and below have been unable to cover their operating costs.

“Although some centres resumed operations on May 4, and more began operating yesterday, the number of children allowed on the premises is reduced by up to 50% to ensure social distancing. So, the current fees are insufficient.

“This has affected operations as many centres cannot afford to cover costs, such as salaries, rental, electricity and water bills, food and beverage, as well as teaching aids.

“We have to wait another two to three months to see if the centres are able to remain open,” she was quoted as saying in news reports.

Anisa was commenting on the grievances aired by operators whose businesses were badly hit by the movement-control order that took effect on March 18. – June 10, 2020.