New World distributes masks to employees and offers "work from home"

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In view of growing concerns over the Wuhan coronavirus outbreak, New World Development announced new measures for all employees on Monday, including the donation of face masks, hand sanitisers and wet wipes, and a 'work from home' option.

Employees can opt to work remotely at home until 3 February to prevent the spread of the novel virus.

The Hong Kong-based property developer has also ordered HK$10 million worth of medical supplies from Japan, South Korea, and Thailand, and estimates that over a thousands of boxes of face masks will be delivered to Hong Kong next week.

Community centres will also benefit from this.

“It is hoped that the donation can help contribute to the society, as well as to encourage people from the business and other sectors to to combat this endless battle in a joint-hand effort,” said Adrian Cheng Chi-kong, the executive vice-chairman and general manager of New World Development.

In other developments, the Hong Kong government announced one day later a special work arrangement for government departments, whereby most employees are not required to return to the office until 2 February.

The government has also urged private sector organisations to make similar arrangements.

As of Tuesday, Hong Kong health officials have identified eight confirmed cases of the coronavirus.

Picture/Ming Pao