A worker who handles the takeaway food area in IKEA’s Tebrau facility has been tested positive for Covid-19, the centre is now temporarily closed until further notice.

In a statement on its website, IKEA Tebrau, Johor said it had been informed of the diagnosis on April 1 and was therefore working closely with public health officials. The statement said it would undertake thorough cleaning and sanitisation of its common areas and facilities in accordance with guidelines from the Ministry of Health.

It is surprising to see how the outlet was still in operation despite the MCO period, even though IKEA provides a full restaurant, this part of the sales for furniture business is negligent and should have instead waited for the order to the lifted to resume business. Besides the Swedish is giant is big enough to sustain a temporary closure, pay its workers and does not require the small revenue it makes from the food sale. Putting peoples lives at stake does not warrant the risk!

We don’t think Johor people cant be without Swedish meatballs nor there is no other food outlets open in Tebrau, the company should consider the many local operators trying to eek out a livelihood during this difficult time and not compete with them.  We hope the government weighs in on matters like this when the MCO is either extended or staggered, only businesses that’s 100% in f&b and relevant services should be allowed open.