PETALING JAYA: Malaysia has maintained its Tier 2 status in the US 2026 Trafficking in Persons Report.
The Home Ministry said that it welcomed the assessment, which was issued by the US Department of State.
Tier 2 status indicates that a country does not fully meet the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking set by US law, but is making significant efforts to bring itself into compliance.
The classification sits above the Tier 2 Watch List and Tier 3 rankings, keeping the country clear of potential US sanctions or restrictions on non-humanitarian foreign assistance.
"This standing reflects continued international recognition of the country's sustained and determined efforts to combat human trafficking crimes," it said, adding that the report acknowledges Malaysia's commitment to combating human trafficking.
It said that the report also highlighted the country's key achievements, including the prosecutions of public officials suspected of involvement in human trafficking crimes, increased government financial allocations to support anti-human trafficking operations and the increase of specialised personnel including in Sabah and Sarawak.
"The 2026 US Department of State report also outlines eight recommendations for improvement that Malaysia can implement during the next assessment period, from April 1, 2026, to March 31.
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"Key recommendations include improving mechanisms for the early identification of victims, strengthening the quality of case investigations, making the recruitment fee system more accountable, and expanding strategic partnerships with non-governmental organisations (NGOs). The full details of the eight recommendations are attached to this statement.
"In this regard, the government has established several strategic measures, namely strengthening the integrity of public officials, establishing a victim management system in accordance with international standards, strengthening cooperation with civil society organisations and NGOs, and leveraging digital technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI)," it said.
The Home Ministry said that the Council for Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants (MAPO) remains committed to conducting joint actions with the relevant authorities to curb emerging human trafficking trends such as job scams.
"The government is confident that this holistic approach will strengthen the effectiveness of the country's efforts in curbing human trafficking, bringing guilty parties to justice, ensuring human rights and protecting victims. This will also ensure public safety and security," it said.
