State Trading Organization (STO) has revealed the state and public owned corporation was conducting a drill on operational and preventive measures should Maldives go into total lockdown.

The Greater Male' Region is currently observing restricted movement; with most state institutions completely closed with employees working remotely from home. Moreover, educational venues along with cafes and restaurants have been closed down temporarily.

Members of the public are advised to limit outdoor activities, while the state and health authorities have advised against traveling out of greater Male' region.

STO's Managing Director Hussain Amr, revealed the corporation's ongoing preventive measures through a tweet.

According to STO's current frontman, the state and public limited corporation has revised work hours on several of its venues and outlets - with working hours sliced for most of its work force.

Mr Amr further noted the nature of STO's business makes it impossible for the corporation to completely close shop. STO is responsible with providing pharmaceutical drugs, staple foods and even oil.

The corporation's drill is expected to identify the challenges or issues in its employees operating remotely from home.

Moreover, Mr Amr further asserted STO's management has attempted to ensure most of the company's work force can remain in their homes and work remotely to contribute for overall operations.

Several private companies and organizations have resorted to remote-working environments, allowing their employees to work from home. The decision comes amid the COVID-19 outbreak.

Health authorities have advised against crowded spaces or public gatherings, while most businesses have prioritized safer working environments to avoid possibility on the spread of the disease.