Kuala lumpur: The Ministry of Human Resources (KESUMA), through the Peninsular Malaysia Department of Labour (JTKSM), is closely monitoring the closure of operations involving WRP Asia Pacific Sdn Bhd to ensure the rights and welfare of its 1,426 affected workers are protected.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, KESUMA stated that JTKSM conducted further investigations on April 17 following complaints regarding the full closure of the company's operations in Sepang, Selangor. The investigation confirmed that the company has appointed a liquidator and issued notices of termination of service to employees with immediate effect from April 15, 2026. Of the 1,426 affected workers, 304 are local employees while 1,122 are foreign workers.

KESUMA reported that JTKSM held a meeting with the liquidator, the Social Security Organisation, and the Royal Malaysia Police on April 17. Following the meeting, the liquidator expressed commitment on several key matters, including wage and benefit claims, salary status, and temporary contract offers. All claims related to wages and termination benefits will be managed through the submission of the Proof of Debt (POD) form in accordance with prescribed procedures.

Salary payments for March 2026 have been settled, while salary payments for April 2026 are in the process of detailed documentation by the contract-appointed Human Resources division for finalisation. KESUMA added that some local employees would be offered temporary contracts to complete critical tasks such as document management, financial matters, and technical duties related to the maintenance of factory assets and machinery.

For the welfare of foreign workers, KESUMA noted that the employer had assured that their needs, including accommodation and food, would continue to be taken care of until their relocation process was completed. Efforts are underway to facilitate job placement offers by new employers for the affected foreign workers.

The ministry stated that it would continue to monitor the situation to ensure that the employer and the liquidator fully complied with national labour laws. All necessary measures will be taken to safeguard workers' welfare and protect their rights, while ensuring the entire process is carried out in an orderly, transparent, and fair manner. KESUMA urged all parties not to engage in speculation that could cause public concern while the documentation and the settlement of workers' claims are being carried out.

Previously, a local news portal reported that Malaysian glove manufacturer WRP Asia Pacific Sdn Bhd would cease operations from April 15 due to major disruptions in global energy and chemical supplies arising from the conflict in West Asia. The company stated that raw material and chemical costs had risen, while procurement timelines had become uncertain and suppliers were demanding advance payments.