by SHAFIQQUL ALIFF / pic by MUHD AMIN NAHARUL

THE National Security Council’s (NSC) green light for the handling, receiving, loading and unloading of non-essential imports in areas under the Enhanced Movement Control Order (EMCO) will relieve congestion at the ports.

In a statement today, Transport Minister Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong said this approval will immediately reduce congestion at certain ports, which have reached 80% of their capacities.

For the handling of the goods, the special permission is from today (July 15) until July 17 while loading and unloading works are allowed on Monday, Wednesday and Friday according to the standard operating procedures set by the NSC.

“MOT will continue to monitor the status of ports and airports to ensure that goods and cargo can continue to be transported safely under strict Covid-19 prevention procedures.

“This is particularly important for high traffic areas such as Port Klang to maintain efficient port operations and prevent cargo backlogs despite the EMCO,” Wee said.

He added that these moves are expected to help companies mitigate high storage costs.

Exporters, importers and warehouse operators must obtain permission at the nearest police station to get them through roadblocks and to be presented at the authorities when carrying out their works.

To obtain the police permission, they must bring along their cargo-related documents as proof, namely an invoice, bill of loads, and packing list, among others, along with a list of their worker’s names who are involved in the activities.