Friday 29 Mar 2024
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KUALA LUMPUR (Aug 7): Sime Darby Plantation Bhd (SDP) has rebutted allegations made by Liberty Shared in its latest statement over the risks of bribery as well as wage theft and money laundering when its workers hold their accounts at the same bank.

In a statement, the group said these issues were not mentioned in Liberty Shared's earlier petition summary report to which it had clarified its position and current practices.

“SDP views this statement with serious concerns as it is insinuating the possibility of one of Malaysia’s most respected banking institutions colluding to wage theft with SDP, in addition to money laundering.

“This veiled remark must be substantiated with strong and clear evidence, as by implication, it also raises the question on the credibility of the related financial institution that is subjected to stringent banking laws and regulatory framework. SDP has no means to investigate these issues thoroughly without substantive details," said SDP.

Moreover, it said if there were any instances of such allegations previously, the vocal, independent and formidable National Union of Plantation Workers (NUPW) would have brought the issue to light and conducted an immediate probe into the issue.

SDP said the Malaysian Department of Labour has also been conducting regular inspection on the wages paid and would have taken prompt action against SDP, had wage theft occurred.

Other than that, SDP said Liberty Shared had also questioned the ability of non-government organisations (NGOs) in assisting with issues pertaining to corporate governance, risk management and internal controls.

“While we understand the concerns raised, SDP stands by the excellent work, dedication and passion that our NGO partners have demonstrated in ensuring we continue to improve our operations.

“These organisations have helped both us and the industry at large to devise and implement changes for progress in numerous areas over the years. We will continue to engage and work with NGOs and like-minded organisations that share a common objective to further improve our own standards and practices, as well as raising the bar on sustainable growth for the industry,” it said.

At the time of writing, shares in SDP rose one sen or 0.2% to RM5.12, bringing the market capitalisation of the group to RM35.18 billion. It saw 112,700 shares transacted.

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