KUALA LUMPUR (June 4): Private sector employers have lauded the government’s decision to exempt payment of Human Resources Development Corporation (HRD Corp) levy, says the Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF).

In a statement today, MEF president Datuk Dr Syed Hussain Syed Husman said the exemption would allow the employers to manage their cash flow more effectively in order to remain sustainable amid the unprecedented global crisis.

“The global economic crisis and lockdown situation due to the pandemic have made it extremely difficult for most employers, especially the micro enterprises and the SMEs that make up more than 98% of registered companies in Malaysia.

“MEF is encouraged and grateful for the support given by the Ministry of Human Resources and Human Resources Development Corporation for acknowledging the critical role of the private sector for recovery, growth and employment creation,” Syed Hussain said.

Under the Pemerkasa Plus economic stimulus package announced by the government last week, employers registered with Human Resources Development Bhd will be given levy exemption for the month of June.

The ministry had previously, in consideration of the dire economic conditions, agreed to grant a levy payment exemption to employers from March to May.

“MEF hopes to strengthen our role as a critical social partner of the government to reinvigorate the national recovery and business continuity and we look forward to future engagements with the government towards this end,” said Syed Hussain.