Felda Global Ventures Holdings Bhd (FGV) has introduced a Voluntary Separation Scheme (VSS) for all its general managers and above as part of its manpower optimisation exercise.

The initiatives are in line with FGV's strategic intent to deliver sustainable performance in the face of a challenging industry and to improve the operational and financial performance of FGV's core business.

"This initiative has to begin from the top and it is a signal that we are making tough decisions in order to enhance the confidence of our shareholders and stakeholders," said Group President and Chief Executive Officer Datuk Zakaria Arshad in a statement today.

He also disclosed that pool of general managers, senior general managers and vice-presidents including himself would also be taking cuts of about 15 per cent to their allowances as part of the company's frugal cost management initiative.

The company expected a 15 per cent take up of the VSS out of the 236 senior management staff who received the offer.

Zakaria said that there was no change in the current management structure.

"S. Palaniappan, who has almost 40 years of experience in the plantation and research and development (R

"Datuk Khairil Anuar Aziz is Chief Operating Officer of sugar and logistics

- BERNAMA