BFM appoints independent party to look into sexual harassment claims

PETALING JAYA: Radio station BFM 89.9 has assigned an independent party to assist in investigations over allegations of sexual harassment in the company.

Its founder Malek Ali said some of the staff members involved have also taken a leave of absence.

He said the company was committed to providing a safe environment “in which all members of our community can work without fear and threat of sexual harassment”.

Malek added that as an extra precaution, the media outlet was reviewing its reporting mechanism to ensure availability of safe channels for such serious matters to be dealt with.

“As the formal investigative process is underway, there are restrictions on what we can announce during the proceedings,” he said in a statement on Monday (Dec 3).

He said the radio station does not want to make statements that may compromise the investigation and cause further distress to their staff until more information is gathered.

“Our first priority is and always has been the welfare of our employees and we take any and all allegations of sexual harassment and misconduct seriously,” he added.

Allegations surfaced through a circulated email that alleged sexual harassment at the radio station.

The e-mail alleged that the management had not looked into the sexual harassment claims seriously.