Malaysia's rubber glove boom spotlights longtime labour standards issues

Workers of some glove-makers speak of cramped, unclean living conditions, but the firms say working and living conditions are in line with government regulations

Uma Devi

Published Wed, Jun 30, 2021 · 05:50 AM

top glove

Singapore

WHILE Top Glove has repeatedly made headlines for allegations of forced labour and poor working conditions at its facilities, other Malaysian glove manufacturers are apparently no better.

Employees of Hartalega and Kossan Rubber Industries, whom The Business Times recently contacted, offered accounts of gruelling 12-hour workdays (including overtime) and startling stories of vermin-infested communal living facilities.

One common theme was the…