KUALA LUMPUR (Nov 25): Nitrile glove maker Hartalega Holdings Bhd has been named as one of Malaysia’s most preferred employers by regional publication HR Asia for the second year consecutive year.

In a statement Tuesday, Hartalega said it recently received the ‘HR Asia Best Companies to Work for in Asia 2014’.

The award recognises companies with exceptional workplace culture and significant levels of employee engagement.

Hartalega was the only rubber glove manufacturer to receive the award, out of 40 Malaysian companies selected this year.

The criteria for the award is based on employee and employer surveys developed and conducted by HR Asia.

Input and feedback from employees and management is evaluated by an independent panel of industry experts, academics, journalists and Government representatives.

Hartalega managing director Kuan Mun Leong said the company was honoured to have been bestowed with the award for the second consecutive year.

“We would like to thank all Hartalega employees, or ‘Hartanians’, who made this award possible through their positive input and feedback.

“It certainly means a lot to us, as human capital development is a key focus area for the Group and we have adopted a people-centric approach throughout our organisation.

“The success of Hartalega has been built on the calibre of our talent pool, and we are firmly committed to employee engagement to unlock potential and maximise performance,” said Kuan.

Kuan said that over the years, Hartalega had implemented various development programmes to provide its workforce with opportunities to enhance their capabilities and core competencies.

He said that as part of its Human Resources Transformation Programme, it also undertook initiatives to nurture core values in employees, known as SHIELD, comprising Synergy, Honesty, Innovativeness, Excellence in Quality, Learning and Dedication.

“In order to ensure that our employees will be well-equipped to contribute to Hartalega’s sustainable long-term growth, we are establishing a Learning Centre at our Next Generation Integrated Glove Manufacturing Complex, our latest phase of growth.

“As we move forward, strengthening our talent pool remains a top priority for the Group as we strive to realise our expansion plans and forge ahead in the industry,” said Kuan.