KUALA LUMPUR, June 22— The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) notes with serious concern the US Department of State’s 2014 Trafficking in Persons (TIP) report that Malaysia has been downgraded to Tier 3 Watch List for failing to fully comply with the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking under the US Trafficking Victims Protection Act 2000 (TVPA), despite two consecutive waivers granted to it in 2012 and 2013 respectively.

Of particular concern to Suhakam are the State Department’s findings that Malaysia's efforts in combating human trafficking in three main aspects namely prosecution, protection and prevention are not sufficient or satisfactory, and that some of those aspects have been consistently highlighted by the Commission through its annual reports, as well as dialogues and roundtable discussions with relevant Government agencies and other stakeholders.

Suhakam urges the Government to give due consideration to the following recommendations:

1. To strengthen its mechanisms in prosecuting offenders, protecting victims and deterring human trafficking. This should be done in partnership with civil society groups and diplomatic missions, as well as international and regional stakeholders.

2. To ensure that NGOs are provided an avenue to offer expertise to the Council for Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants (MAPO), since many victims are more inclined to approach members of civil society for assistance.

3. To ensure that all victims are given an immediate health check upon arrival at a shelter, as well as receive regular visits by medical personnel.

4. To consider the establishment of a dedicated court to expedite the resolution of cases pertaining to trafficking in persons and smuggling of migrants. Victims should be informed of the status of their case.

Given the adverse impact of the downgrade by the State Department, particularly on the country’s human rights records and economic development, Suhakam calls on the Government to intensify its effort to prevent and combat human trafficking and smuggling of migrants, as well as to ensure full protection and assistance for trafficked and smuggled victims at all stages, in line with international standards set by the UN Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children.

* This is the personal opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malay Mail Online.