The Body Shop has been known for its skin care and make-up products worldwide. However, recently it has been known for its ‘apparent racism’.
Apparently The Body Shop Malaysia posted a job advertisement in one of its outlets to hire sales consultants. However, the ads also specifically stated that only Chinese candidates will be hired.
This matter was brought to attention when a netizen, Khishaniah Dhamodaran took a picture of it and uploaded on social media. She also demanded an explanation from the company regarding the blatant racial discrimination.
Source: Kishaniah Dhamodaran
The picture has since gone viral with many netizens branding the company as ‘racist’ and ‘ignorant’. Some even threatened to boycott the company if no action is taken to revoke this hiring policy.
“Don’t Body shop have a policy on hiring? Its an international company. This is sad even after 30 years, its still not successful in nurturing diversity and inclusiveness,” commented a netizen.
However, many employees from The Body Shop Malaysia have stood up to counter this allegation and showed support to the company they’re working for.
A netizen named Ang Siew Yan said:
“I’ve been working for The Body Shop Malaysia for 13 years and I’m surrounded by colleagues of different races. We celebrate every festivals by decorating our shops and uniforms because we are Malaysians.”
Some employee even posted pictures to show that they rejoice working with colleagues of different ethnicity at The Body Shop.
A netizen, Indri Rashid commented:
“It’s really heart-breaking to see this post. I’ve been working for The Body Shop for so many years and I don’t see discrimination here. The company values you based on your performance and not your skin colour. Anyway, this is my lovely team picture.”
Source: Kishaniah Dhamodaran Facebook
Another netizen, George Wong said:
” I have 3 races (Malay, Chinese,Indian) working in my shop and I’m very proud we work as a great team together.”
Source: Kishaniah Dhamodaran Facebook
Following the uproar of netizens, The Body Shop Malaysia has apologised and explained to the netizens on Facebook.
“Under no circumstances do we condone the amendment to this sign, and any such actions by any of our colleagues. This was an unsanctioned act which goes against our HR policies, and it was removed immediately. We apologise for the hurt it may have caused.”
The company also added:
“As an international company and also a brand which has campaigned against discrimination of any kind in Malaysia for over 30 years, our hiring policy is based on experience, aptitudes and skills. We have always and will always hire people of all ethnicities and gender.”
The way I see it, that particular shop only phrased their requirements poorly and had no intention to be racist. So relak la everyone.
