KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has recorded 147 convictions of human trafficking-related cases last year compared to 100 convictions in 2016.
Home Ministry's secretary-general Datuk Seri Alwi Ibrahim was upbeat by the higher number of convictions, saying the government would continue with its efforts with various stakeholders to address human trafficking issues.
"Non-governmental organisations' active involvement in managing victims of human trafficking is a positive development and must continue to ensure the victims' welfare is being protected," he said in a statement after chairing the first Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Council (MAPO) meeting for this year.
Also present in the meeting was a representative from the United States Embassy deputy chief of mission Dean Thompson.
The council, Alwi said, had planned various programmes and new initiatives for this year to reduce the number of human trafficking cases.
“The government has agreed to introduce a special court to handle human trafficking cases, to be presided by a Sessions Court judge,” he added.
Alwi said the court would focus on solving pending cases and those that needed urgent attention.
“The court, scheduled to operate in May this year, will be able to expedite prosecution and ensure justice for the victims."
He also said about 150 human trafficking victims had received their monthly incentives, while 95 victims were granted permission to move freely and work in Malaysia.
The government, he added, would conduct more engagements with source countries, embassies, and industry players to infuse anti-human trafficking elements at all levels throughout the supply chain.
“MAPO members have also signed the corruption-free pledge witnessed by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission to reflect Malaysia's commitment in its fight against human trafficking,” he said.