KUALA LUMPUR – Whistle-blower Yubaraj Khadka, who was terminated by Top Glove Corp Bhd in September after leaking photos of poor working conditions at the company’s manufacturing facilities, will not have been fired today under the corporation’s present standard operating procedures (SOPs).
Top Glove managing director Datuk Lee Kim Meow admitted to BFM Radio this morning that the company had erred in firing Yubaraj.
“The whistle-blower took a photo on May 2. As we all know, this was the time Covid-19 SOPs were being strictly enforced nationwide.
“He was terminated because he admitted that he leaked the photo to someone, wanting to damage the company’s reputation. If it had happened today, he will have not been terminated.”
Lee said the rubber glove manufacturer had since hired consultants – internal and external – to handle workers’ welfare and complaints.
“The consultants have prepared a wellness line as a channel for workers (to air their grouses). We have also prepared a whistle-blower line – internal and external – for the workers.”
However, Lee did not mention if Yubaraj will be rehired or receive any compensation following his termination.
Recently, the Peninsular Malaysia Labour Department opened 19 investigation papers against Top Glove for failing to comply with the Workers’ Minimum Standard of Housing and Amenities Act 1990 (Act 446).
To this, Lee said the episode has taught the company many lessons, adding that an additional RM100 million has been earmarked to purchase double-storey houses and build centralised hostel facilities.
“It was a surprise to us because we didn’t realise the situation could become so serious. The company is complying with Act 446 by making sure, for instance, that the (workers’) mattresses are four-inches thick (among others).
“We want to be seen doing the right thing by continuing to improve in these areas. There is also room for improvement in terms of monitoring workers’ conditions.
“If we have, say, 1% of the 1,000 workers with issues or complaints, the company will focus on taking care, monitoring and working with them closely. Top Glove has won awards for having healthy workers,” he said, adding that the company continues to work closely with the Labour Department on managing these issues.
He said following tests, Top Glove workers have lesser cases of Covid-19 at present.
“We are working with police, the Klang health office, Labour Department and authorities over the matter.”
Lee also expressed regret over the recent death of a worker due to the virus.
“The death of our employee is deeply regrettable. As such, we have worked with the authorities and planned for his funeral arrangements. We have also paid compensation to his family.
“To ensure that the health of our workers is taken care of, the company has 42 professionals to manage their wellness, including eight nutritionists.”
Yam Narayan Chaudhary, who was stationed at Top Glove’s 13th factory in Meru, Klang, died on December 12 after the company admitted him to the nearest hospital on November 21. – The Vibes, December 23, 2020
