MARGMA meets with U.S., U.K. to address human rights concerns

PETALING JAYA, Malaysia—The Malaysian Rubber Glove Manufacturers Association (MARGMA) held meetings with U.S. and United Kingdom representatives to address concerns over human trafficking and forced labor issues in its industry.

Two recent dialogue sessions involved discussions with officials from a number of U.S. government agencies and separately with a U.K. envoy to Malaysia, MARGMA reported March 7.

The aim, MARGMA said, was "to build strong working partnerships (toward) achieving our goals in staying ahead in compliance with international standards."

The sessions were led by MARGMA President Supramaniam Shanmugam, Vice President Hue Kon Fah, immediate past-President Denis Low and association CEO Chan Wone Fu.

From the U.S. were representatives of the Customs and Border Protection, Department of Labor, Bureau of International Labor Affairs, and Immigration and Customs Enforcement/Homeland Security Investigations.

The CBP team, led by Anne Marie Highsmith, executive assistant commissioner of the Office of Trade, "emphasized their commitment to be strong partners" in this area, MARGMA said.

Highsmith, it added, had noted efforts by Malaysian industry players and government to reform labor laws, via the country's participation in the Trans-Pacific Partnership.

Discussions with the U.S. representatives also covered issues around technical assistance and collaborations in educating businesses, migrant workers, society and unions.

The association also covered its efforts to highlight the need for social compliance "to buyers and to set new benchmarks for the rubber glove manufacturing fraternity globally."

According to MARGMA, "it was concurred by all parties (at the meeting) that a level playing field is essential globally for all glove manufacturers."

Also, "as discussed and agreed by U.S. CBP, any unrealistic low selling prices, will be a tell-tale sign of cutting corners on ESG," said the Malaysian industry body.

At a separate session with U.K. migration and modern slavery envoy Andrew Patrick, MARGMA said its members are working to ensure compliance with the new procurement framework of the U.K. National Health Service (NHS).

MARGMA said it has been working with the UK government to ensure that its members are "sensitized" to the new NHS requirements.

"I am pleased that Mr. Andrew Patrick spoke to our members about the new measures and expectations to ensure that no forced labor practices taint the supply chain," said Supramaniam Shanmugam.