Apart from political problems, the issue of forced labor is also a hot topic in Malaysia.
The United States (US) customs agency has banned imports from another disposable glove manufacturer in Malaysia, YTY Industry Holdings Sdn Bhd (YTY Group).
The import ban was made following allegations that the company practiced forced labor, making it the 7th ban on companies in Malaysia in 2 years.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (GST) issued a statement on Friday that it would take action against the company based on information received about forced labor practices in the company’s glove manufacturing operations.
YTY Group has not yet issued a further statement on the matter.
It is common knowledge that companies in Malaysia including some of the world's major suppliers of palm oil and medical gloves have gained world attention for being suspected of abusing foreign workers, especially for the manufacturing workforce in Malaysia.
GST stated that they had identified 7 out of 11 indicators of forced labor practices issued by the International Labor Organization during its investigation into YTY Group including threats and intimidation, debt bondage, work stress and excessive working hours.
In addition, GST also found that Malaysian palm oil producer Sime Darby Plantation Bhd also used forced labor in their operations and the firm's goods may be confiscated.
Meanwhile, on Friday, the agency detained Malaysian -made goods by YTY Group and units of YTY Industry Sdn Bhd, Green Prospect Sdn Bhd and GP Lumut in all US investments.
