Workplace & Employment

COVID-19: Employers' Road to Reopening

The global economy has taken a staggering hit following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Country after country has announced full lockdowns or issued a multitude of orders intended to limit the movement of people.

As the pandemic shows signs of being brought under control in some countries, governments have begun looking to the future, cautiously seeking to restart their economies without triggering another outbreak. With ten member firms throughout Southeast Asia, Rajah & Tann Asia is uniquely positioned to address queries that employers and businesses with cross-border dealings within this region of high economic interconnectivity and interdependency may have, particularly with regard to the anticipated reopening of businesses.

Our member firms hail from the jurisdictions of Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.

This COVID-19 Publication brings together our lawyers from all member firms to answer the following questions:

1. Is your jurisdiction under some form of movement control restrictions, whether full or partial ("Restrictions")? If so, what Restrictions are in place?

2. Are businesses open and functioning during these Restrictions?

3. If businesses are not allowed to open, how long is this situation expected to last?

4. What conditions need to be in place to allow businesses to open and continue to function, and what are employers’ legal obligations in this situation?

5. What is the risk to employers who reopen their premises for business? What additional measures should employers take to manage their liabilities?