In a statement to Bursa Malaysia, the company said the preliminary findings of the independent law firm indicate that the allegations may be unjustified.

“The detailed report and findings will be finalised soon.

“The company reiterates that it will not hesitate to take stern disciplinary action against any person found to have breached its policies and/or committed acts against the welfare, safety and security of its workers,” it said.

It said to the extent that any acts amount to an offence under the law, it would not hesitate to report them to the authorities, and that it would issue a further press release when the report is completed.

Yesterday, the electronics manufacturing service provider confirmed a Reuters report that Dyson Operations Pte Ltd and Dyson Manufacturing Sdn Bhd had terminated three contracts with its wholly owned unit, ATA Industrial (M) Sdn Bhd (ATAIM), effective June 1 next year.

ATA IMS said it placed significant emphasis on the welfare, safety and security of its workers.

It said it also had policies and systems in place, including an anonymous whistleblowing hotline operated by third parties, an established induction programme to educate workers on available channels to highlight their concerns and a counselling programme to ensure the well-being of its workers.

“The company also engages professional dormitory operators to provide clean and hygienic accommodation and living facilities.

“It wishes to highlight that it is also subject to regular audits and inspections of the working and living conditions of its workers.

“Ad hoc inspections have been carried out by the labour department, the department of occupational safety and health as well as (Human Rights Commission of Malaysia) Suhakam. In none of these audits and inspections were issues of forced labour found in the company.”