MALAYSIA’S status at Tier 2 Watch List of the United States State Department’s annual report on Trafficking in Persons (TIP) 2023 marks significant progress in addressing the issue of human trafficking in this country against previous years.

Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) chairman Prof Rahmat Mohamad said the organisation praised the concerted efforts of the government and all stakeholders in improving the position of the country’s TIP.

“Government measures reflect a strong commitment to combat human trafficking. It is also a recognition of the importance of exiting Tier 3 to avoid restrictions on the export of local products,” he said in a statement last night.

As an organisation committed to promoting and protecting human rights including combating human trafficking, Rahmat said Suhakam remains steadfast in supporting initiatives aimed at eradicating such crimes.

He described the collaboration between the government, civil society organisations and relevant stakeholders as important to realising the objectives of the National Action Plan on Anti-Trafficking in Persons 2021-2025 and the National Action Plan on Forced Labour 2021-2025.

Suhakam also reiterated its recommendations to the government to increase efforts to prevent and lead the eradication of human trafficking, migrant smuggling and ensure full protection and assistance to victims of trafficking and smuggling at every level.

The report released on June 15 showed Malaysia being moved from Tier 3 to Tier 2. Interim observations recommended that Malaysia placed emphasis on human trafficking cases involving civil servants and improve inter-agency cooperation. – Bernama, June 20, 2023.