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The
electronics manufacturing services company said it will work
with the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia, known locally as
Suhakam, after Dyson, the company's largest customer, cut ties
with ATA after an audit of its labour practices and allegations
by a whistleblower.
The British home appliance maker's contract with ATA ends on
June 1.
ATA said on Dec. 7 it had found instances of staff working
excessive overtime and had taken action against a manager who
coached employees for a labour audit.
ATA said Suhakam had visited its facilities on Sept. 27 to
verify allegations of forced labour reported by media outlets,
and provided feedback for improvement for the company's
consideration.
It did not say what the feedback was but said it has implemented
additional grievance channels for workers, terminated an agent
that charged workers recruitment fees and improved communication
issues at the company clinic treating workers.
Suhakam confirmed that it will be working with ATA to improve
their practices.
ATA also said it "looks forward to working closely ... with the
government, the Ministry of Human Resources and other relevant
bodies in its efforts to step up on its ESG and (corporate
social responsibility) efforts."
Malaysia charged ATA last month with four violations of labour
law on accommodation for workers as it investigates complaints
of forced labour.
ATA has asked for the charges to be dropped, saying any
infractions were caused by the "challenges presented during the
pandemic".
In the past two-and-a-half years, seven Malaysian firms,
including the world's biggest glove maker and palm oil producer,
have faced U.S. import bans over allegations of forced labour.
(Reporting by Liz Lee, Editing by Louise Heavens)
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