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STATEMENT BY

H.E. AMBASSADOR SYED MOHAMAD HASRIN AIDID

PERMANENT REPRESENTATIVE OF MALAYSIA TO THE UNITED NATIONS

ON

THE 2021 POLITICAL DECLARATION ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE

UN GLOBAL PLAN OF ACTION TO COMBAT TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS

 

23 NOVEMBER 2021

 

Mr. President,

 

1.     At the outset, I wish to thank you for convening this high-level meeting to appraise progress achieved in the implementation of the Global Plan of Action to Combat Trafficking in Persons. We welcome the adoption of the Political Declaration and hope that there is greater resolve by the international community to address existing gaps and challenges in our common efforts to fight this menace.

 

Mr. President,

 

2.     The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated efforts by countries to address trafficking in persons. The vulnerable populations exposed to the socio-economic crisis and health impacts of COVID-19, have become more susceptible to exploitation. Survivors of human trafficking are also at risk of re-trafficking and re-exploitation. The pandemic has also impacted the capacity of authorities to tackle crimes related to trafficking as well as to work with NGOs in providing essential services to the victims.

 

3.     Malaysia recognises that trafficking in persons does not only impinge fundamental human rights but also the sovereignty and security of a country. We strongly condemn trafficking in persons, and remain fully committed in our efforts to fight it. These include:

 

     3.1.  Enhancing the capacity of law enforcement as well as inter-agency cooperation and international cooperation;

     3.2.  Smart partnership with government agencies, CSOs, IOs, and foreign government agencies;

     3.3.  Improved assistance to victims of TIP based on human rights and victim centric approach; and

     3.4.  Raising awareness on TIP issues and Government’s efforts in combatting this crime through effective media campaign.

 

4.     At the national level, Malaysia is guided by the Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrant Act 2007 (ATIPSOM 2007) as well as the National Action Plan on Anti-Trafficking in Persons ‪2021-2025 (NAPTIP 3.0) launched in March 2021. NAPTIP 3.0 spells out the country’s vision, guiding principles and strategic goals which is a reflection of the Government’s commitment and continuation of previous plans in efforts to combating TIPs until 2025. It also serves to support Malaysia’s obligations and responsibilities at the regional and international levels.

 

Mr. President,

 

5.     Malaysia wishes to reiterate that the international community needs to exert more efforts and continue to urge countries of origins to carry out greater responsibilities in preventing their citizens from being exploited by human traffickers. Comprehensive strategies developed through holistic approaches as well as international and regional cooperation is needed to combat human trafficking. Malaysia will continue to undertake its responsibilities in combatting trafficking in persons, while at the same time ensuring its independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity are not compromised.

 

Thank you.