MALAYSIA maintained its Tier 2 ranking for the third consecutive year in the Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report 2026 issued by the United States Department of State.
The Ministry of Home Affairs stated that this standing reflects continued international recognition of the country's sustained and consistent efforts to combat human trafficking.
The report acknowledges Malaysia's determination to fight the crime, with key achievements including an overall strengthening of law enforcement efforts.
Tier 2 status indicates that a country does not fully meet the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking set by US law, but is making significant efforts towards compliance.
The classification is above the Tier 2 Watch List and Tier 3 rankings, keeping the country clear of potential US sanctions or restrictions on non-humanitarian foreign assistance.
"Additionally, the report highlights the prosecution of public officials involved in such crimes and the increase in government financial allocations for anti-trafficking operations.
"There has been a significant increase in specialised officers, including in Sabah and Sarawak, alongside amendments to two regulations under the Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Act 2007 to improve authorisation periods.
"Consequential amendments regarding Extended Care and Protection Orders (PJPL) and the management of victims whose PJPL has expired, as well as the opening of new shelters operated by non-governmental organisations.
"There is also enhanced enforcement capacity in Sabah and Sarawak, along with operations in high-risk sectors such as oil palm plantations and rubber glove manufacturing," the ministry said in a statement today.
Last year, Malaysia reportedly maintained its Tier 2 ranking in the same report, having held that position in 2024.
In 2023, Malaysia was assessed at Tier 2 Watch List, while the last time it held a Tier 2 ranking was in 2017.
The Ministry of Home Affairs stated that the 2026 JNAS Report also outlines eight recommendations for improvement for Malaysia for the upcoming assessment period, running from April 1 of this year to March 31 of next year.
Key recommendations include enhancing victim early identification mechanisms, strengthening the quality of case investigations, eliminating worker recruitment fees, and expanding strategic partnerships with NGOs.
"The government has outlined several strategic directions, namely strengthening the integrity of civil servants and establishing a victim management system that meets international standards.
"This also involves strengthening cooperation with civil society organisations and NGOs, as well as leveraging digital technology and artificial intelligence," the ministry said.
It stated that the Council for Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants (MAPO), led by the ministry alongside other government agencies, is committed to implementing integrated measures, including addressing emerging trends such as job scams.
"Efforts to combat these crimes require close cooperation among various parties through a holistic approach grounded in the pillars of enforcement and legislation, protection, and prevention.
"The government is confident that this comprehensive approach will enhance the effectiveness of national efforts to combat human trafficking, bring offenders to justice, uphold human rights, and protect victims, thereby ensuring public order and national security," it added. – October 9, 2026
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