How Jebsen and Jessen Packaging Embraces Responsible Labour Practices with the Ganapati Initiative

How the Ganapati Initiative Ensures Responsible Labour Practices That Drive Business Success

   We recently had a chat with Mr. Eric Lim, General Manager of Jebsen and Jessen Packaging in Malaysia, one of the pioneering suppliers who joined the Ganapati Initiative during its pilot phase in collaboration with AIM-Progress. The Ganapati Initiative, led by Embode, is a unique effort that takes a systems-building and directly collaborative approach to strengthening the capacity of supply chain businesses in responsible recruitment and labour practices. 

   In our conversation, Mr. Lim shared valuable insights on how ethical labour practices, when integrated with operational realities, go beyond basic compliance and support long term business success. He emphasised that responsible recruitment and labour standards are essential for building sustainable supply chains and developing trusted relationships with buyers and brands. Mr. Lim highlighted the importance of transparency and open communication in supplier-brand engagement, advocating for long term partnerships that are built on mutual understanding rather than limited to compliance audits. He noted that initiatives like the Ganapati Initiative provide practical, hands-on support that helps supply chain businesses not only meet standards but also create more sustainable and efficient working environments.

Question 1: How do supply chain businesses in Malaysia want to be engaged by buyers and brands?

Transparency and collaboration are key. We value engagement that goes beyond compliance audits, where brands foster open communication, provide clear expectations, and work towards long-term partnership. A balanced approach that considers both ethical labour practices and operational realities would strengthen engagement together with buyer and brands.

Question 2: How do capability-building initiatives, such as the Ganapati Initiative, support supply chain engagement on labour standards?

These initiatives are beneficial in providing structured guidance, training, and awareness on responsible labour practices. They help us (suppliers) enhance compliance, implement ethical recruitment policies, and create a more sustainable working environment while maintaining efficiency. Practical, hands-on support is particularly valuable.

Question 3: What more can be done to ensure brands and buyers support and collaborate with suppliers?

Beyond compliance, brands can offer continuous support through training, knowledge-sharing sessions, and incentive programmes for suppliers who proactively improve labour conditions. Additionally, I suggest linking up with local relevant authorities or government agencies that could provide further support, ensuring alignment with national labour policies and strengthening responsible recruitment practices.

AIM-Progress members partnered with Embode, to support and empower supply-chain businesses to realize responsible recruitment practices. You can read their Report on the Ganapati Initiative here. 

Learn more about Jebsen and Jessen Packaging here. 

You can read more about the Ganapati Initiative on our website here.