Sime Darby Plantation revisits alleged sexual harassment case involving plantation worker

KUALA LUMPUR (Dec 3): Sime Darby Plantations Bhd said it has identified and revisited a case of sexual harassment at one of its plantations in Malaysia, even though the complainant had withdrawn her complaint in April 2019.

In a statement today, the group said the complainant, who withdrew her complaint two months after it was first brought to light, had insisted that she was in no way coerced into withdrawing her complaint.

“At that time, the complainant had insisted she was in no way coerced or intimidated into withdrawing her complaint, and that she was acting voluntarily, while being given our assurance that we would protect her and safeguard her rights.

“As the complainant was steadfast about withdrawing the complaint, the company had accordingly closed the matter as there were no other witnesses to the alleged act,” it said.

Sime Darby Plantation also informed the independent non-governmental organisation (NGO) assisting the complainant of her decision, with the NGO acknowledging the decision to close the case.

Upon revisiting the matter, the group said the complainant had informed its Gender Committee representative that she had no intention of reopening the case and also denied that the offensive statements had been made to her in the first place.

The group further said that another female colleague identified as the actual target of the alleged statement has denied that she had heard the statement, if it had been made at all.

“Thus, without any evidence, witness or even a victim, we have no basis to pursue further investigations and have accordingly closed the case again.

“Both individuals continue to work in our estates as employees, under the protection of the systems that we have in place. We have taken this opportunity to reinforce the many safeguards, processes and procedures that are in place for our female workforce, and to educate all employees of the appropriate conduct expected of them at all times,” Sime Darby Plantation said.

The group reiterated its zero tolerance for any forms of sexual or human rights violations, exploitation, abuse or any other criminal offences in its operations and supply chains and said that it will continue to ensure the safety and well-being of all members of our workforce, especially the more vulnerable.

Partnerships and collaborations are important, it said, in addressing these complex issues, which can be better resolved with the involvement of all stakeholders, especially human rights groups.

The group said it has worked with a range of NGOs and civil society organisations over the years to strengthen its efforts in safeguarding the fundamental rights of its workforce, regardless of gender or ethnicities.

“In the spirit of openness, transparency and collaboration, we will continue to engage in such collaborations to continuously improve our policies and practices in upholding human rights.

“Any individuals or organisations, including members of the media, with evidence of any wrongdoing are encouraged to report them to us immediately, or to the relevant authorities,” said the group.

The statement was made in reference to the news article published by the Associated Press on Nov 18 detailing cases of rape, sexual and physical abuse against women working in oil palm plantations in Malaysia and Indonesia.

The AP had spoken to a female worker at one of Sime Darby Plantation’s estates. In the report, she detailed the alleged sexual harassment that she was subjected to.