The Crisis Of Child Trafficking Shut Down The Exploitation Market

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THE recent discovery of a 17-year-old girl being trafficked by her own mother for sexual exploitation is a deeply disturbing and horrific reminder of the serious issues surrounding child abuse and trafficking.
This case, which spanned three years starting from between 2022 and September 2023, highlights the vulnerability of children to exploitation.
There is an urgent need for a comprehensive and coordinated response from both the authorities and the public. The exploitation of children for sex, in any form, is an unacceptable crime that must be met with the full force of the law.
What makes this particular case even more alarming is the fact that it occurred within a broader network of sexual exploitation.
The girl’s mother not only forced her into sex work, but also regularly transported her to specific locations, suggesting that certain areas have become hotspots for such activities.
This troubling reality raises questions about the scale of child trafficking within the country and demands an immediate investigation into other potential locations where similar crimes may be occurring.
Such places must be identified, monitored, and swiftly shut down to prevent further harm.
It is crucial to recognise that the root cause of child sexual exploitation lies not only in the actions of the traffickers, but also in the demand for such services.
As long as there are individuals who seek to exploit children for sexual gain, this cycle of abuse will continue. Therefore, it is essential that those who purchase such services are held just as accountable as those who facilitate the trafficking.
Without addressing both the ‘supply’ and the ‘demand’, efforts to combat trafficking will remain incomplete.
In addition to legal action, we must ensure that strong legal frameworks are in place, providing clear and stringent penalties for those involved in trafficking, exploitation, and abuse.
Equally important is the need for education and awareness campaigns that inform the public about the signs of trafficking and exploitation, so that communities are better equipped to identify and report suspicious activities.
If the girl involved in this case had more community support, perhaps she would have been saved sooner, and she would not have to endure such a nightmare for three years.
Following this, support services for victims must also be strengthened, ensuring that children who are rescued from such situations receive the care and protection they need to rebuild their lives.
The fight against child sexual exploitation and trafficking is one that requires the commitment of all sectors of society. It is vital that we act now to safeguard vulnerable children and ensure that this crime is eradicated once and for all. 
Datuk Wong You Fong is the Wanita MCA National Chairperson.
The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of MMKtT. 
- Focus Malaysia

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