Kossan Glove Factory Hits a Sudden Production Crunch
What’s the scoop? After 427 workers tested positive for Covid‑19, the Malaysian glove maker Kossan Rubber Industries decided to slash its production by nearly one‑quarter. The pause will last 14 days, starting December 4.
Why the sudden stop?
- Outbreak spotted at one of its six plants.
- 7,004 employees screened – 427 came back positive.
- Remaining 1,667 staff who tested negative now in quarantine while the facility is being sanitised.
- Management estimate the hit will affect less than 2 % of the group’s bottom line.
Other glove giants feel the tremor
Malaysia’s top players have faced similar hits: Top Glove saw over 5,000 workers infected, and Hartalega announced cases too.
Leadership’s Take
Founder Lim Kuang Sia told theedgemarkets.com that the gap will be short‑term. “It’s just a two‑week hiatus starting today,” he said.
What’s the next move?
- Factory expected to reopen next Sunday.
- Phase‑in testing: 20 % of staff every two weeks as a precaution.
- Operations expected to resume full strength after the pause.
Keep an eye on Affin Hwang Capital, which highlighted the 25 % voluntary capacity cut. The factory’s next chapter is set to be a smooth resumption – hopefully without any more glitches.
Quick reminders for the rest of the world
- Keep mask‑in, sanitizer‑on, and stay alert.
- When production dips, panic is the last place you’ll find your gloves.
