Sri Lanka, Jan. 8 -- The apparel sector requires that supply chains remain open for manufacture and thereby protect livelihoods. MAS CEO Suren Fernando said the sector is finding it hard to maintain morale due to the stigma society places on the workers during COVID-19.

He said, "I speak on behalf of the whole industry that we need open communication. We have to continue our business but that doesn't come at the cost of health and safety. We genuinely care for our people. We want to protect their lives and their livelihoods."

Fernando was speaking to LMD TV on 6 January. The opening up of factories in the country was done gradually, with multiple safety precautions, and under the guidance of the health authorities.

MAS began by operati...