In late April, the Associated Press reported in two related news stories that U.S. senators have urged Malaysia to investigate claims made by refugees that immigration officials from the Southeast Asian federation turned them over to human traffickers near the Malaysia-Thailand border.

 In the report, the committee urged Malaysia to investigate and prosecute those involved with human trafficking. Other activists and government officials have since weighed in to urge action.

 The Associated Press now reports that Malaysia’s prime minister has promised to investigate the U.S. Senate report, asking for more information.

 The U.S. Senate Committee on Foreign Relations report claimed that deported Myanmar migrants were frequently funneled through human traffickers, the AP stories reported. Deportees unable to purchase their own freedom are often forced into labor in Thai brothels, fishing boats and restaurants.

 The Committee based its report on interviews with both Myanmar migrants and human rights activists, the story reported. Although former Home Minister Syed Hamid Albar had initially dismissed concerns, officials have now reported that they are investigating claims.

 The AP stories report that, sadly, perhaps thousands of Myanmar migrants have fallen into the predatory hands of human traffickers in recent years. The Senate report quotes an anonymous migrant who explained that attractive refugees are sold into forced prostitution, while others are sold into restaurant or housekeeping work. 

To read the complete stories, click the links below.

 “U.S. urges Malaysia to end Myanmar human trafficking.”

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090424/ap_on_re_as/as_malaysia_myanmar_trafficking_1

 “Malasia vows action on Myanmar human trafficking.”

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090424/ap_on_re_as/as_malaysia_myanmar_trafficking