KUALA LUMPUR – Electronic products contract manufacturer ATA IMS Bhd, which has been the subject of allegations concerning forced labour, has come forward to refute such accusations.
Yesterday, Reuters published a news article at 6.23pm entitled “Dyson dumps Malaysian supplier ATA over labour concerns”.
Following claims by former ATA employees, it was alleged that staff were forced to work overtime in excess of limits prescribed under Malaysian laws.
In a press statement today, ATA said the welfare, safety, and security of its workers have been the company’s utmost priority.
“ATA has existing policies and systems in place, including an existing anonymous whistleblowing hotline operated by third parties, an established induction programme that educates workers on the available channels to highlight any concerns they may have, and a counselling programme to ensure the well-being of its workers.
“ATA also engages professional dormitory operators to provide clean and hygienic accommodation and living facilities,” the statement said.
The allegations were said to have caught ATA by surprise, given that the company is subjected to regular audits and inspections over the living conditions of its staff members.
ATA claims that ad hoc inspections from the Labour Department, Suhakam, and Occupational Safety and Health Department revealed no labour issues whatsoever.
“Therefore, the company takes a serious view on the allegations of forced labour practices mentioned in the summary of the audit that it has received, and the allegations of physical abuse made by a former staff, as mentioned in the Reuters article,” the statement noted.
In response to the allegations, ATA has appointed a firm of consultants to review and verify the findings – and to take further action, if necessary.
Additionally, ATA said it has hired a law firm to look into the physical abuse allegations made by a former staff.
However, the company said initial findings by the law firm suggest those accusations may be “unjustified”.
“The detailed report and findings will be finalised soon.
“ATA will make a further press release when the independent report is completed,” the statement added. – The Vibes, November 26, 2021
