Seven ethical labour practices that build stronger workplaces: insights from TNB

Is a commitment to ethical labour just a PR façade? Explore how one national utility company confronts the tough realities of real change. 

What makes a workplace truly fair? Is it just about meeting legal requirements, or is there more to it?

At Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB), they believe that ethical labour practices aren’t just a checkbox exercise—they’re essential for building a healthy, sustainable workplace.

Let’s walk through five ways TNB applies these principles and see how they can inspire better practices in any workplace.

1. Safe and Healthy Workplace

Nobody should feel unsafe at work—whether that’s due to physical risks or emotional harm. TNB takes a broad view of safety.

It’s not just about hard hats and safety protocols; they’ve adopted a zero-tolerance policy toward harassment and discrimination to create a workplace where people feel comfortable and respected.

Why It Matters:

A safe environment isn’t just a “nice-to-have.” When people feel protected and cared for, they’re more productive and engaged. It’s one less thing to worry about—and that makes a difference.

2. Standing Against Bribery and Corruption

In today’s business world, making ethical choices isn’t always easy—but it’s essential. At TNB, decisions are held to the highest standards of transparency and accountability. This isn’t just policy; it’s about creating a culture where honesty and integrity are part of everyday work.

Why It Matters:

Employees are more likely to trust and respect a company that doesn’t cut corners and values ethical conduct. By standing firm against corruption, TNB builds a foundation where everyone works together toward shared goals, without compromise.

3. Ensuring Labour Protection and Welfare

Labour protection at TNB goes beyond policies; they’re about respecting every worker. With strict safeguards against forced labour, human trafficking, and child labour, TNB aims to make sure every worker, has a safe and dignified place to work.

Why It Matters:

Respecting workers’ rights isn’t just a rule—it shapes the workplace culture. By protecting these rights, TNB fosters an environment where everyone feels valued and safe.

4. Fair Wages, Fair Treatment

Ever wonder why fair wages are such a big deal? It’s simple: people want to know they’ll be paid fairly for the hours they put in.

TNB makes sure its employees—whether local or foreign—get wages that align with labour laws. On top of that, they comply with working hour regulations and provide paid leave.

Why It Matters:

It’s not just about the paycheck. Knowing your rights are respected helps build trust between employers and employees. And trust, in turn, keeps people motivated and focused on doing good work.

5. Learning Never Stops

At TNB, growth isn’t just for the company; it’s for employees too. Lifelong learning is part of the company’s DNA, with regular training that helps staff develop new skills and stay prepared for changes in the industry.

Why It Matters:

Nobody likes feeling stuck in a job. When people have opportunities to learn and grow, they feel valued—and that makes them more likely to go the extra mile.

6. Giving Employees and Vendors a Voice

One of the biggest indicators of a healthy workplace is whether employees feel heard. TNB supports freedom of association, giving workers space to join unions and raise concerns through structured channels.

They also offer anonymous whistleblowing for anyone—employees or vendors—who need to report wrongdoing without fear of backlash.

Why It Matters:

When employees feel like they have a voice, they’re more likely to stick around and collaborate. Open communication can turn a problem into a conversation—and conversations often lead to solutions.

7. Embracing Diversity for Stronger Teams

Workplaces are better when everyone feels welcome.

TNB actively promotes diversity—by gender, age, and ability—and ensures protections are in place, like safeguarding pregnant employees from unfair dismissal.

Why It Matters:

Diverse teams bring fresh perspectives, which means better ideas and problem-solving. When people feel they belong, they work better—and that benefits everyone.

What Can We Learn from TNB’s Approach?

Building an ethical workplace isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress. Here are a few takeaways anyone can apply:

• Create safe spaces: Safety goes beyond accident prevention—it includes emotional well-being, too.
• Pay attention to wages and rights: Fair compensation builds trust and reduces turnover.
• Listen to your team: Open communication makes it easier to find solutions and build trust.
• Invest in learning: Growth benefits both employees and the business.
• Celebrate differences: Diverse teams make better decisions, period.

A Journey, Not a Destination

At the end of the day, ethical labour practices aren’t just policies—they’re part of a long-term commitment to creating workplaces where people feel valued.

TNB shows that it’s possible to balance business goals with the well-being of employees and partners.

No workplace is perfect, but every step toward fairness counts.

Whether you run a small business or work in a large organisation, these lessons can help build a better, more inclusive workplace for everyone.