KUALA LUMPUR: Asean countries have earlier today agreed to set up a trust fund to facilitate the management of human trafficking victims among member nations.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi the decision was made unanimously during the Emergency Asean Ministerial Meeting on Transnational Crime Concerning Irregular Movement of Persons in Southeast Asia (AMMTC) held here earlier today.
Zahid, who chaired the meeting, said he suggested that each member country should contribute USD100,000 (RM377,000) to the fund, which will be utilised to channel aid to victims and fund their shelters.
"However, this is just a suggestion. The amount has yet to be decided.
"Singapore became the first country to pledge their support of USD200,000 (RM754,000) as a start," he told reporters during a press conference after the 12 nations meeting.
Also at the press conference were Home Ministry secretary-general Datuk Alwi Ibrahim, Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar and Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency deputy director-general (operations) Datuk Ahmad Puzi Ab Kahar.
Meanwhile, on the people smuggling of Rohingyas, Zahid said Myanmar will be working together with other Asean members to monitor human trafficking activities and in identifying syndicates responsible.