KUALA LUMPUR, June 17 — Malaysia’s upgrade in the latest US Trafficking in Persons (TIP) report was a promising indication for the two countries’ relations, said Datuk Seri Nazri Aziz.
The Malaysian ambassador to the US said the improvement showed the South-east Asian nation’s commitment to combat people smuggling and signified the US’ readiness to build upon existing ties.
“The upgrade demonstrates the two nations’ openness to discussion, understanding and cooperation in ways that add value to the Comprehensive Partnership between Malaysia and the US entering its 10th year in 2024,” he was quoted as saying by the Astro Awani news portal.
The ambassador said Malaysia would closely monitor discussions towards this in the US as well as support the country’s other efforts to combat human trafficking, which accurately reflects its commitment to this on the global stage.
Nazri also expressed support for the full brunt of the law to be brought against those involved in such criminal activities, regardless of their identity or affiliation.
“They must be made to face justice based on existing laws,” he said.
Yesterday, Malaysia was upgraded to the Tier 2 Watchlist in the TIPS report for 2023.
Malaysia was in Tier 2 of the US TIP Report 2017, Tier 2-Watch List from 2018 to 2020, and the lowest Tier 3 in 2021 and 2022.
After the report’s release, Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said local law enforcement has identified public officials abetting human trafficking syndicates and would begin pursuing them.
