Malaysia: Malaysia has retained its Tier 2 ranking in the 2025 Trafficking in Persons Report released by the United States Department of State (USDOS) in Washington yesterday. The Home Ministry (KDN), in a statement today, described the achievement as international recognition of the country’s continuous efforts in combating human trafficking crimes.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the report acknowledged that Malaysia has demonstrated significant efforts and progress in the fight against human trafficking. Key achievements include an increase in investigations, prosecution of public officials, higher allocations for anti-trafficking activities, expanded approval for work permits for victims, and amendments to the Sabah and Sarawak Labour Ordinances.
Other efforts highlighted in the report include the launch of a trafficking data system and the establishment of an Anti-Trafficking Advisory Group with the participation of non-governmental organisations (NGOs). At the same time, KDN stated that USDOS had outlined 15 areas for improvement for Malaysia to consider ahead of the next evaluation period, from April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026.
These recommendations include strengthening victim identification, enhancing investigations, abolishing recruitment fees, expanding cooperation with NGOs, and establishing a dedicated fund for the Victim Assistance Specialist (VAS) programme, including appointing VAS experts in Sabah and Sarawak. In line with these recommendations, KDN emphasized the government’s strategic directions, such as reinforcing public service integrity, establishing an internationally recognised victim management system, and enhancing collaboration with civil society organisations (CSOs) and NGOs.
The Council for Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants (MAPO), led by the ministry alongside other agencies, remains committed to implementing integrated measures, addressing emerging trends like job scam syndicates. The fight against this crime requires close cooperation from multiple stakeholders, including NGOs, CSOs, international organisations, academia, and the employer sector, through a holistic approach based on the pillars of enforcement and law, protection, and prevention.
KDN concluded that this comprehensive approach will strengthen Malaysia’s effectiveness in combating human trafficking while ensuring greater protection for victims.