US and Malaysia Unite Against Transnational Crime
A new memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at combating transnational crime has been signed by US Attorney General Eric Holder and Malaysian Minister for Home Affairs Datuk Seri Hishammuddin bin Tun Hussein, during a meeting in Malaysia. The deal marks a significant step in the fight against human trafficking, terrorism, and other cross-border crimes.
A total of 12 US states have seen a significant rise in human trafficking cases over the past five years, with the number of victims rescued increasing by 10%. The US government has committed to providing $1.5 million in funding to support anti-trafficking efforts in Malaysia.
Under the terms of the MoU, law enforcement officials from both countries will be able to share information in order to prevent and investigate transnational crimes, including human trafficking, drug trafficking, terrorism, money laundering, cybercrimes, and organized crime. The agreement also encourages expanded direct and informal cooperation among law enforcement officers in both countries to assist in investigations.
The MoU is a significant development in the growing cooperation between the US and Malaysia in areas such as law enforcement, trade, education, and culture. Attorney General Holder met with Malaysian Prime Minister Dato’ Sri Najib Tun Abdul Razak after the signing ceremony, and also spoke to sessions and magistrate court judges, prosecutors, government officials, and the Malaysian Bar Council about their ongoing efforts to hold criminals accountable and protect the civil liberties of all citizens.
The MoU is set to enhance capacity-building efforts through training, consultations, and exchanges between law enforcement officials in both countries. However, information will not be shared where it is not legally permitted by either country.
Attorney General Holder will meet with local law enforcement before travelling to Singapore for meetings with the US Ambassador to the Republic of Singapore David Adelman and local law enforcement counterparts. The deal is expected to strengthen the ability of both countries to safeguard their citizens and bring dangerous criminals to justice.
For photos of Attorney General Holder’s official visit, please visit http://blogs.justice.gov/main/archives/2373.
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