EMPLOYERS must ensure their migrant workers are screened for Covid-19 as 78% of cases detected since May 4 are foreigners, said Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah.

“From May 4 till 29, we’ve noted that almost 78% of positive cases involve foreign workers,” the director-general of health told a daily press conference on the coronavirus in Putrajaya today.

“So, we advise employers to do screening. It is good for them.”

He said cramped conditions at workers’ living quarters contribute to the virus’ spread.

“We are not looking at any particular sector. We are looking at (workers’) accommodation. If we can address (the issue) of accommodation, I think we can solve the problem.

“It’s not only (to prevent the spread of) Covid-19, but also other infectious diseases such as TB (tuberculosis).”

Cramped living space has been a common factor in all clusters involving foreign workers so far.

Dr Noor Hisham said it is important to ensure social distancing is strictly observed.

He added that Malaysians’ compliance with health standard operating procedures is at a good level, pointing to the low number of infections among locals lately.

“Perhaps, Malaysians are observing social distancing and all the SOPs. The question is, are foreign workers doing the same?

“I think we need to educate foreign workers on these SOPs… that’s very important.”

Citizens and non-citizens alike have to heed the measures as “health involves everyone”, he said. – May 29, 2020.