PUTRAJAYA, Apr 23 — The Ministry of Human Resources (KESUMA), through the Department of Labour of Peninsular Malaysia (JTKSM), is closely monitoring the closure of WRP Asia Pacific Sdn Bhd to ensure the rights and welfare of 1,426 affected workers are protected.
In a statement issued on April 21, KESUMA said JTKSM had conducted investigations on April 17 following complaints regarding the company’s full closure of operations in Sepang, Selangor.
“The investigation confirmed that the company has appointed a liquidator and issued termination notices to employees with immediate effect on April 15, 2026.
“Of the 1,426 affected workers, 304 are local employees while 1,122 are foreign workers,” the statement said.
KESUMA said JTKSM had convened a meeting with the liquidator, the Social Security Organisation (PERKESO) and the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) on April 17.
Following the meeting, the liquidator expressed commitment to several key matters, including claims for wages and benefits, salary status and the offering of temporary contracts.
“All claims related to wages and termination benefits will be managed through the submission of proof of debt (POD) forms in accordance with established procedures.
“Salary payments for March 2026 have been settled, while payments for April 2026 are in the process of documentation by a contract-appointed human resources division before finalisation,” the statement said.
According to KESUMA, some local workers will be offered temporary contracts to complete critical tasks such as document management, financial matters and technical duties involving the maintenance of factory assets and machinery.
For foreign workers, the employer has assured that their welfare, including accommodation and food, will continue to be taken care of until the relocation process is completed.
“At the same time, efforts are underway to facilitate employment offers from new employers to the affected foreign workers,” the ministry said.
KESUMA said it will continue to monitor developments closely to ensure that the employer and the liquidator fully comply with national labour laws.
“All necessary measures will be taken to protect workers’ welfare and safeguard their rights, ensuring the entire process is conducted in an orderly, transparent and fair manner.
“KESUMA urges all parties to refrain from speculation that could cause public concern while documentation and settlement processes are ongoing,” the statement added.
Previously, local news portals 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 caused by the conflict in West Asia.
The company said raw material and chemical costs had risen significantly, procurement timelines had become uncertain and suppliers were demanding upfront payments.
