sex work discrimination

Section 372 of the Malaysia Penal Code makes it a crime to sell, let for hire, or otherwise dispose of any person for the purpose of prostitution. It also criminalizes bringing a person into or taking a person out of Malaysia with the intention that the person will be used for prostitution. A conviction carries a maximum penalty of fifteen years in prison, whipping, and a fine. Section 372B extends the framework by prohibiting solicitation for prostitution or any “immoral purpose” in any place.

The Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act, originally passed in 2003 and amended in 2005 and 2015, criminalizes human trafficking and related abuses. The Act provides trafficked persons with access to adequate health services and protection against discriminatory treatment. The Act establishes a National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (Part II), establishes Agency Transit Shelters for rescued trafficked persons, and establishes a Victims of Trafficking Trust Fund to provide compensation for victims (Part X).