In a series of Facebook posts, Najib said Putrajaya’s decision was unfair to all parties, questioning why companies like IKEA and Habib Jewels were allowed to operate during the ongoing movement control order (MCO).

“Since when is selling gold and jewellery an essential service during MCO? Essential service for who?

“All IKEA outlets across the country are allowed to operate during the MCO. Even kids and senior citizens are allowed to visit, although they’re not encouraged to.

“Is the sale of furniture included under essential services? Meanwhile, numerous small traders aren’t allowed to operate. We must be fair to all,” he said.

Najib said these two weeks of MCO should be enforced more strictly to achieve the goal of reducing Covid-19 cases and also to avoid further extensions of the lockdown.

On its official Facebook page, IKEA said all its branches in Malaysia will be operating from 10am to 8pm daily. However, it said its restaurants, bistros and Swedish food marts are only open for deliveries or takeaways.

Meanwhile, Habib Jewels also informed customers on Wednesday that it will remain open despite the MCO.