In reference to the following press reports:

  • Star Metro Dec 3, 2010 on page 2 with the headline "Factory ordered to close".
  • Malaysiakini Dec 4, 2010, article headlined "Tutup Kilang, Rugikan Rakyat"


1. Hartalega has never been ordered to close, suspended, nor issued serious warnings of any kind.

2. We categorically deny the allegations reported to have been made by Datuk T. Murugiah, Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister's Dept and some residents of Taman Suria. We are now seeking legal counsel on this matter.

3. Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim, Menteri Besar of Selangor asked to meet us in his office on 2nd December in the late afternoon, as a result of The Star report. He assured us that we are operating legally and are in full compliance of all state regulations. Reports by Jabatan Alam Sekitar (JAS) show we did not violate any environmental regulations. Tan Sri Khalid is the assemblyman of the constituency where the plant is located.

4. We would now like to state for the record that since inception, Hartalega has been in total compliance with all relevant laws including those relating to the environment and building bye-laws. In fact in some areas related to effluent discharge and emissions, Hartalega not only meets but constantly exceeds standards enforced by JAS).

Hartalega's efforts in adhering to regulations set by JAS as well as Majlis Daerah Kuala Selangor can be substantiated by the good reputation we have accrued over the years as a result of consistently meeting all rigorous and stringent inspections. In addition, we have independent consultants and inspectors who regularly test water and air emissions to ensure we are always in full compliance with the requirements of JAS.

5. Hartalega has been operating in Batang Berjuntai for nearly 20 years and is part of the local community. We pride ourselves as model employers, as a contributor to its economy; as much as we pride our financial bottom lines.

6. As such we cannot help feeling aggrieved that we have been accused of irresponsible behavior. Such is the absurdity of the situation that we now have to "answer" to some people who decided we have done wrong and is supported by a deputy minister, who unilaterally decided there is merit and have been reported as saying; "the factory should be closed down".

7. We would be failing in our duty to our investors, shareholders, the management and employees, if we do not now seek legal counsel on possible civil proceedings or to lodge police reports for criminal intents. We also want to re-assure our community that we will be discerning. Our decisions will always take into consideration the peace and harmony we have built together and enjoyed over the years.

Kuan Mun Leong is the deputy managing director, Hartalega Sdn Bhd and executive director, Hartalega Holdings Bhd.