304 Malaysians among 1,426 left jobless after glovemaker’s closure

 The human resources ministry says wage claims will be handled through the proper processes, while Perkeso is helping the workers find new jobs.

Glovemaker WRP Asia Pacific Sdn Bhd shuttered operations this month, citing cost increases and supply chain disruptions caused by the ongoing Middle East conflict. (Facebook pic)

PETALING JAYA:

 A total of 1,426 workers, including 304 Malaysians, have lost their jobs following the closure of a glove manufacturing factory in Sepang, Selangor, on April 15, the human resources ministry said.

The ministry said all claims related to wages and termination benefits connected with the closure of WRP Asia Pacific Sdn Bhd would be handled through the proper processes.

In a statement, it said salary payments for March had been settled, while the wages for April were still being processed.

The ministry said some of the affected Malaysian workers would be offered temporary contracts to handle critical tasks such as document management, financial matters, and machinery maintenance.

The Social Security Organisation (Perkeso) is also helping the retrenched workers get new jobs through engagements with potential employers.

“WRP has given its assurance that the welfare of foreign workers, including the provision of accommodation and food, will continue to be maintained until their relocation is completed.

“At the same time, efforts are ongoing to facilitate job offers from new employers for the foreign workers,” the ministry said.

The glovemaker cited cost increases and supply chain disruptions caused by the ongoing Middle East conflict for its closure.

The company was quoted by Bloomberg as saying the cost of petrochemical‑derived raw materials and chemicals had risen significantly as a result of the Iran war. - FMT