ILO recommends changes to rubber glove industry working practices

 

The US Customs and Border Patrol had, since late 2020, restricted imports of Malaysian rubber products after accusing several manufacturers of using forced and indentured labour. (Bernama pic)

PETALING JAYA: Labour rights and fair recruitment practices must be strengthened to facilitate decent working conditions in the Malaysian rubber glove sector, the International Labour Organization (ILO) said.

The UN agency released a report today aimed at providing guidance to the government, employers, employees, buyers and recruitment agencies in the industry.

In recent months, the US has been lifting sanctions against Malaysian rubber manufacturers in stages.

The US Customs and Border Patrol had, since late 2020, restricted imports of Malaysian rubber products after accusing several manufacturers of using forced and indentured labour.

“We trust that the recommendations will be of use for the implementation of new policies, plans and tools that address the challenges in the rubber glove supply chain,” ILO deputy regional director for Asia and the Pacific Panudda Boonpala said.

Among the report’s recommendations is a call to strengthen Malaysian labour laws to align with international standards, with particular focus on overtime, and ensuring safe and healthy work and living environments.

The report called for greater promotion of fair recruitment practices, including reforming labour laws to prohibit recruiters and employers from charging recruitment fees and related costs to workers.

The report also suggested strengthening “the capacity of employers to conduct due diligence in their supply chains, including recruitment agencies and labour subcontractors, as well as improving grievance mechanisms”.

It said: “Employers should strengthen social dialogue to identify and resolve workplace issues while enabling workers to collectively negotiate for better and safer working conditions.” - FMT