It can be done through approved self-test kits or at health facilities, the international trade and industry ministry (Miti) said.

Miti said this move was in addition to the existing SOPs as a proactive measure to curb the spread of Covid-19 among workers.

“Current SOPs, such as physical distancing and the use of face masks, are still applicable and mandatory for companies.

“The government would like to remind companies to follow the SOPs.

“Legal action, including compounding or suspension of company operations, may be taken against them for non-compliance,” the ministry said in a statement today.

Earlier on, Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin had announced that 11 types of economic activities had been allowed to resume under Phase One of the national recovery plan, starting tomorrow (Aug 16), with additional SOPs imposed on clothing, fashion and accessory stores, jewellery stores as well as barbershops and beauty centres/salons.

Miti said companies would have to make an official declaration on the number of employees who are fully vaccinated in the Covid-19 Intelligent Management System (CIMS) 3.0 system, after which they may download the new operating approval letter.

“This declaration is limited to the manufacturing sector only.

“Confirmation on the vaccination rate of employees will be made through a review with the Covid-19 Immunisation Task Force, under the science, technology and innovation ministry,” it said.

The ministry added that periodic verification visits will also be carried out by enforcement personnel on companies in the manufacturing sector.

CLICK HERE FOR THE LATEST DATA ON THE COVID-19 SITUATION IN MALAYSIA