Altech Chemicals Ltd (ASX:ATC) has recommenced stage two construction activities at the high-purity alumina (HPA) plant site in Johor Bahru, Malaysia.
Work ceased when a Movement Control Order (MCO) was imposed for one month due to the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The MCO resulted in closure of all non-essential government and private business premises and consequently the suspension of construction works and close of Altech’s HPA plant site at Tanjung Langsat.
Restrictions relaxed
This restriction was extended on four occasions and is in effect until June 9.
However, the Malaysian government recently announced a relaxation of MCO restrictions under a revised Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO), which has seen the restart of business activities, such as construction, but only if pre-approval is obtained from the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI).
COVID-19 testing completed
Altech has now received MITI approval for business recommencement and has implemented the required COVID-19 related workplace standards for personal and workplace hygiene, including individual screening and social distancing.
COVID-19 testing for all personal was completed last week and final site inspection by the Construction Industry Development Board for verification of implementation of the new procedures has been conducted, which has allowed for the recommencement of construction activities at site.
Prior to the suspension of construction activities in March 2020, work on the electrical substation was nearing completion, with only cosmetic architectural detailing and internal fit-out of some mechanical and electrical systems remaining.
It is expected that these works will be completed by July 2020, followed by rectification of any punch list items and a final handover inspection of the substation to Altech.