Malaysia is strengthening its fight against forced labour through the development of a new National Action Plan on Forced Labour (NAP-FL) for 2026–2030, aiming to eliminate the practice across the country by 2030.
A two-day workshop organized by the Ministry of Human Resources (KESUMA) with technical support from the International Labour Organization (ILO) brought together representatives from government, employers’, workers’ and civil society organizations to review the draft plan. The discussions focused on bolstering prevention measures, improving governance of labour migration and recruitment, enhancing enforcement and compliance systems, and expanding protection and remedy for victims, including migrant workers.
The workshop also explored proposals for a strengthened governance structure to support coordinated implementation in Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, and Sarawak, ensuring that the plan’s commitments are effectively translated into action.
“The action plan for 2026–2030 must be proactive, effective, and fully commit to Malaysia’s aspiration of eliminating forced labour by 2030,” said Rafea’ah Binti Nahar, Undersecretary of the Policy Division, Ministry of Human Resources.
The ILO highlighted that Malaysia’s efforts are grounded in its obligations under the Forced Labour Convention, 1930 (No. 29) and its 2014 Protocol, alongside relevant international labour standards. “The draft plan reflects a comprehensive and inclusive process and demonstrates that sustainable change is only possible when all stakeholders are part of the solution,” said Tuomo Poutiainen, Deputy Regional Director of the ILO Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific.
Following the workshop, the Ministry will consolidate inputs into a revised draft NAP-FL 2026–2030 for review by relevant ministries and submission to the Cabinet for approval. The ILO will continue supporting Malaysia in implementing the plan and meeting its international commitments.
The workshop was backed by the ADVANCE project, funded by the Government of Canada, as well as several ILO technical cooperation initiatives, including projects supported by Japan, the European Union, and partnerships with UNICEF to promote decent work, education, and youth training opportunities.
