Expert: M'sians deeply involved in online scams, human trafficking

Editor’s Note: The article was amended to more accurately reflect the cited Usip report and statements by the study group’s chairperson.

Despite many Malaysians falling victim to human trafficking and online scams, a report on transnational crime in Southeast Asia reveals a more complex reality - Malaysians are also deeply involved in running these illegal operations.

The report, “Transnational crime in Southeast Asia: A growing threat to global peace and security”, details how criminal networks built scam compounds in Myanmar, Cambodia, and Laos, and involved Malaysians in managing their operations and fraudulent proceeds.

“The senior study group involved in preparing the report looked closely at dozens of...