KUCHING: CMS Cement Industries Sdn Bhd (CMS Cement) is currently readying its cement manufacturing operations to serve the domestic market once again in line with the recent announcement by the state government that most economic sectors would be allowed to operate under the conditional movement control order (CMCO).
The company, a wholly owned subsidiary of Cahya Mata Sarawak Berhad (CMS), is preparing to recommence business by rigorously observing all standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure speed to market is addressed.
“CMS Cement is activating business continuity plans to ensure the preservation of its cement manufacturing business once operations are up and running. The recommencement of CMS Cement’s operations will see our Sibu terminal becoming operational on May 15, while all its other cement-related operations across the state will come into full force on May 18,” CMS group managing director Datuk Isaac Lugun said.
He said priority would be accorded to Sibu terminal, a key supplier to the Baleh Dam project.
Lugun said whilst preparing to ramp up the group’s cement manufacturing operations, the group also gave top priority to the safety of its employees and customers by bringing three key initiatives into play.
“The initiatives will see the company adhering strictly to the comprehensive SOPs outlined by the state government and the Health Ministry.
“Secondly, CMS Cement will carry out full sanitisation of all its facilities covering offices, production plants, packing and loading bays and weighbridges.
“Thirdly, CMS Cement will conduct medical screening for its staff to ensure only those who are pronounced Covid-19-free are allowed back to work.
“All these activities must be done properly and cannot be rushed, so a target commencement date of May 18 is feasible,” he said.
In addition to these key initiatives, Lugun said CMS Cement would also take measures to enhance its facilities by improving ventilation at its offices as well as installing more shower bays and rest areas.
“At the same time, basic controls such as personal hygiene and social distancing will be strictly adhered to.
“All these initiatives, once fully implemented, will not only safeguard the staff of CMS Cement, but also all others who frequent its facilities such as its customers, contractors and transporters,” he added.
Lugun said while the rules were being relaxed under the CMCO and the people began to get back to their daily activities under the ‘new normal’, the people should remain vigilant in the fight against Covid-19.
He urged all other public and private sector organisations within Sarawak not to let down their guard but take the necessary measures to keep their people safe.
“By working together, we will get through this crisis and emerge a stronger and more resilient state,” he said.
