GEORGE TOWN: In an effort to improve the ventilation system and regulate air flow at his eatery, a barbeque restaurant owner spent over RM1mil to renovate his premises before reopening his outlet at Persiaran Karpal Singh.

       Restaurant director Lee Chee Kheong, 40, said he has installed 11 units of 3hp air-conditioners at his 2,000sq ft restaurant.

       “Previously, we had only two air-conditioners but owing to the pandemic, I wanted to ensure that we have a good ventilation system.

       “This is to ensure my employees and customers can work and dine with peace of mind,” he added.

       He said the renovation in May cost more than RM1mil.

       “This includes other additions like the installation of an exhaust system below all 15 tables, in the kitchen and in the restrooms,” he said here yesterday.

       Chee Kheong said he wanted better ventilation at his premises for health and safety.

       “Now that we’ve heard about the RM300,000 in tax deductible expenses for business premises refurbishment, we are glad we took the chance. This incentive would be help many businesses, especially eateries,” he added.

       The government had announced that the renovation and refurbishment cost of business premises incurred from March 1, 2020 to Dec 31, 2021 would be given a tax deduction on allowable expenses of up to RM300,000.

       This was later announced to be extended to Dec 31, 2022 to assist companies’ cash flow and to encourage the improvement of facilities across business premises.

       Property solutions consultancy Zeon Properties retail planning and leasing consultant Yeap Kim Hoe said the company is making use of the incentive to upgrade its office.

       “We have renovated and upgraded to a bigger pantry for our staffers, with better air-conditioning.

       “We installed a filtration system and an air purifier as well.

       “After this, there are plans to upgrade our meeting room as well so that it can accommodate more people,” he said.

       Zeon Properties chief executive officer Leon Lee described the RM300,000 in tax deductible expenses as a well-thought impetus.

       “Now that the staff of most companies are fully vaccinated, it is time to get back to the office.

       “My team was excellent in adapting to working from home, but many incurred extra electricity costs. As we re-adjust to working in the office again, companies need to think about changing their office layout,” he stressed.

       Aside from better ventilation, Leon said his team had to rethink to ensure physical distancing space, entrances, exits and ways to prevent crowding at the office.

       “Allowing RM300,000 in renovations and refurbishments will give companies incentive to change.

       “We also want to give our office a fresh look to welcome our team members back,” he added.