Japanese auto manufacturers, Toyota and Honda have shut its production units in Malaysia after a two-week lockdown was announced to curb the rising number COVID-19 cases, according to media reports.
The country had allowed auto manufacturers to continue with 10pc workforce or less, but it was deemed too low for Toyota and Honda. This was too less of workforce to keep the factories running.
The main reason for the jump in COVID-19 cases is the slow vaccination program in most Southeast Asia. News reports said if cases continue to rise, auto plants might have to extend production cuts.
Toyota has two plants in Malaysia with an annual production capacity of 50,000 vehicles while Honda has a motorcycle plant and a car plant. The motorcycle factory produces 300,000 units per year and car unit manufacturers 100,000 units per year.