PETALING JAYA: Malaysia maintains a Tier 2 ranking in the 2025 Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report by the US State Department, which was announced on Tuesday in Washington, DC.
The TIP Report is an annual assessment that evaluates global trafficking trends. It focuses on government efforts in prosecution, protection and prevention.
Tier 2 indicates that the countries are not fully meeting the department’s minimum standards to eliminate human trafficking but are making significant efforts to come into compliance.
The Home Ministry issued a statement yesterday saying they welcome the positive assessments for maintaining the rank, as it reflects international recognition of the country’s continuous efforts in combating human trafficking in Malaysia.
“The report then said that Malaysia has shown efforts and achievements that are significant in combating this issue,” according to the ministry yesterday.
“Among the achievements of Malaysia that were recorded by the US State Department are the increase in the number of investigations, the prosecution of public servants, and the increase in funding for activities to combat human trafficking.
“There was also an increase in the number of approvals for work permits for victims, amendments to the Sabah and Sarawak Labour Ordinances, the launch of a human trafficking data system and the establishment of a human trafficking advisory group with NGO participation.
“The US State Department also acknowledges Malaysia’s efforts to identify victims, strengthen investigation efforts, abolish recruitment fees, and expand cooperation with NGOs,” it added.
The ministry said the US State Department identified 15 areas for improvement for Malaysia during the upcoming assessment period, which commenced on April 1 this year and is anticipated to conclude on March 31 next year.
Among the recommendations from the US State Department for Malaysia was to institutionalise and strengthen funding for the Victim Assistance Specialist programme, which included hiring such specialists in Sabah and Sarawak.
“At the same time, the government has also set several strategic plans to strengthen the integrity of the civil servants and establish a victim management system in line with international standards.
“There will also be enhanced collaboration with civil society organisations and NGOs, as well as the integration of digital technologies, including artificial intelligence,” the ministry added.
It also stressed that the Council for Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants, along with other government agencies, will strive to carry out integrated actions, including addressing new trends such as job scams.
