HONG KONG - The Hong Kong government, on Thursday (30/1/2020) appealed to foreign domestic workers (PRT) not to leave their employers' house on their holidays, to maintain their health and reduce the risk of spreading the Corona virus in the community.
"The government appeals to foreign domestic workers as much as possible to stay and rest at their employers' house on their dissolving day, and stay away from crowds, both on public transportation and in public places," said a statement from the Ministry of Manpower, as quoted by the public broadcaster Hong Kong Radio Television (RTHK).
"At the same time, employers should not ask their foreign domestic workers to work on their days off." He emphasized that if an employer orders their original domestic worker to work on their days off, the employer risks being prosecuted and fined up to HK $ 50,000.
If domestic workers feel it is necessary to leave the house, the Ministry of Labor requires them to wear surgical masks and avoid crowded places. This appeal is in line with the appeal issued by the Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia (KJRI) in Hong Kong.
Defer Service, Staff Work from Home
Regarding concerns over the Corona virus outbreak, a number of government services, from courts to postal services, have been temporarily suspended. Public sector workers are required to work from home.
Initially, the policy was valid until Monday (3/2/2020) the day after tomorrow. However, on Friday (31/1/2020) the government announced that the policy was extended for the next week.
The government has also urged private companies to follow government policies.
Government services, especially those of a non-emergency nature, will proceed unusually. Public services such as court hearings, museums, libraries, sports stadiums, beaches are closed until further notice.
This also applies to post office services. The Hong Kong Post said it would not send or collect mail. Meanwhile, the counter service will also be suspended. Only packages made through Speedpost will be sent. [DDHKNews]
Main photo source: RTHK
