KUALA LUMPUR: A Dewan Negara member has called on the Foreign Ministry to urge Nepali authorities and advocate for the release and safe return of a Malaysian woman currently imprisoned in Nepal under unjust circumstances.
Senator Datuk Sivaraj Chandran in a statement said he was deeply concerned about the distressing situation faced by Mala Vello, a Malaysian woman currently imprisoned under unfair circumstances in the country.
"Her case underscores the critical need for updated, inclusive anti-trafficking laws and international collaboration to protect all victims of such heinous crimes.
"Her case exemplifies the grave shortcomings in the legal frameworks addressing human trafficking, particularly concerning the protection of foreign nationals trafficked into Nepal.
"Despite evident signs of Mala being a victim of human trafficking, her passport was confiscated, she was subjected to starvation, physical abuse, and forced domestic servitude for ten years. Nepali law has failed to recognise her plight appropriately."
Sivaraj said The Nepal Human Trafficking and Transportation (Control) Act (HTTCA) currently limits its protective measures to Nepali citizens, leaving Mala without the crucial legal recognition and support she desperately needs.
As such, Sivaraj said he has taken immediate action by sending a formal letter to Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan to put pressure on the Nepali authorities regarding the matter.
"We stand committed to justice for Mala Vello and all victims of human trafficking, advocating for their rights, dignity, and swift repatriation."
The New Straits Times reported that Mala, from Port Dickson, Negri Sembilan, was jailed for seven years for overstaying her visa in Nepal after she was trapped and forced into domestic servitude after following her Nepali partner back to his home country.
