RI told to do more on trafficking

JAKARTA: Comparing human trafficking to slavery, a U.S. official on Monday called on Indonesia to quickly pass pending legislation that toughens penalties for those caught forcing people into jobs as prostitutes, laborers and maids.

John Miller, director of the U.S. State Department's anti- people trafficking office, also announced Washington's plan to spend US$100 million to combat trafficking worldwide this year. His three-day visit to Indonesia ended Monday.

"The U.S. government is increasing its commitments in the growing movement of governments, activists and law-abiding citizens worldwide to put an end to this modern-day form of slavery," said Miller, after he toured a Jakarta hospital that treats migrant workers abused abroad.

Miller said he believed Indonesia was making progress in the fight against trafficking but needed to do more.

He praised Indonesia for taking part in a recent U.S.- sponsored law enforcement training session on trafficking and setting up special anti-trafficking unit within the national police department.

But he said the country should move to pass pending anti- trafficking legislation that was due to be approved last year.

"I understand the president and government support this legislation," he said. "I hope the legislation is passed in the next few months. It will give additional tools to the police and provide tougher punishment for the traffickers."

A U.S. government report last year said Indonesia was lagging behind in efforts to counter trafficking due to corruption and poor law enforcement. It also said Indonesia lacked skilled officials and resources to help victims.

Over 500,000 Indonesian women and children are working illegally in Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Brunei, the Middle East and Australia, according to official statistics.

Miller also will be visiting Japan, Singapore, Malaysia and Vietnam. AP