We act for the Interhill Group of Companies and draw your attention to your article titled ‘ French hotel chain confronted with Penan rape ' which made references to our client.

We are instructed by our clients to state that your coverage and perspective on the issue is not up to date and has omitted the mention of other developments pursuant to the Blackett report.

The public release of the Blackett report in full in itself is an unprecedented step which shows that Interhill has nothing to hide and also reflects Interhill's commitment to high standards of corporate transparency by allowing this mission to be conducted.

Indeed, Interhill welcomes the findings in the Blackett Report but they do not agree with all the conclusions drawn and interpretations made by Bruno Manser Fund in respect of the independent report.

At all material times, Interhill has always cooperated with the police and relevant authorities in respect of their investigation into the claims of sexual abuses and recognizes that it is the prerogative of the police to take any further action and Interhill respects the due process of the law.

Interhill stands ready at all times to render such further assistance whenever required.

Interhill reiterates that it would not hesitate to take strict action against any employee found guilty of any misconduct, as well as to immediately report to the authorities in the event of any suspected criminal acts.

The independent Blackett Report also clearly states that "there is no doubt that Penan and other communities derive considerable benefit from Interhill's presence, principally as a result of improved road access, the provision of transport and employment opportunities. Interhill employs over 250 people from the various communities, namely the Kayan, Iban, Kenyah and Penan."

There are also evidence of contribution in terms of cash and kind to these communities.

Whilst Interhill recognises that there are some areas for improvement, it reiterates that all its forestry operations are in full and complete compliance with all legal requirements and regulations.

Interhill is at all times a law-abiding corporate citizen and remains determined and committed to take appropriate action to further improve on their existing corporate social responsibility measures and engagement with the tribal communities in order to ensure sustainable forest management practices with a better future for all.

To this aim, an action plan will be released by the end of the month.

Thereafter, pursuant to the Blackett report, our client has worked with Accor to produce a 25-point Action Plan to strengthen their CSR practices.

The writer is the executive director of Paddy Schubert Consultants Sdn Bhd, acting for Interhill group of companies.