KUALA LUMPUR (June 28): Malaysia’s rise to Tier 2 in the US State Department’s annual Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report can be attributed to intensified law enforcement and improved victim protection measures, said Malaysia Trades Union Congress (MTUC) president Mohd Effendy Abdul Ghani.

Mohd Effendy said the US State Department evaluates countries based on their adherence to stringent criteria outlined in the Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA).

“These criteria include the prohibition of trafficking, the prosecution of offenders and comprehensive support for victims.

“Malaysia’s advancement to Tier 2 reflects our strengthened commitment and proactive steps,” he said while appearing as a guest on the Bernama TV’s “World” programme that discussed the topic “Malaysia’s Advancement in the 2024 Trafficking in Persons Report” at Wisma Bernama here on Friday.

Mohd Effendy pointed to the bolstering of law enforcement capabilities and the implementation of enhanced measures to safeguard and support victims as key achievements contributing to this recognition.

“The implementation of the National Action Plan on Anti-Trafficking in Persons (Naptip 3.0) played a pivotal role in driving Malaysia’s progress. Furthermore, Malaysia’s international cooperation and engagements, particularly with the United States, played a key role,” he added.

Mohd Effendy further emphasised that while acknowledging this milestone, it is imperative for Malaysia to sustain these efforts.

“Despite these improvements, Malaysia needs to continue its efforts to maintain and enhance its tier ranking by further addressing the root causes of trafficking,” he said. 

The TIP Report annually evaluates global trafficking trends, focusing on governments’ efforts in prosecution, protection and prevention, categorising countries into Tiers 1, 2, 2 (watchlist) and 3, based on their performance.

The upgrade places Malaysia in the company of countries such as Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, India, Japan, Italy, Kenya, Mexico, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Vietnam. 

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