Beyond the Headlines: Investigating Media Framing of Malaysian Human Trafficking in Southeast Asia During Covid-19

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive analysis of human trafficking involving Malaysians in Southeast Asia, with a particular focus on Cambodia, Thailand, and Myanmar. Employing a systematic review approach based on the PRISMA methodology, the study examines 63 news records from The Star, covering the period from March to September 2022. The findings reveal a notable increase in media coverage during this time, signaling heightened awareness of Malaysian human trafficking issues. The COVID-19 pandemic emerges as a critical factor exacerbating vulnerabilities and contributing to a surge in trafficking incidents. Malaysians were identified as victims of forced labor in diverse industries, including online scams and illegal gambling. The study highlights the significant role played by human trafficking networks and unscrupulous employers in trapping individuals in exploitative situations. The study underscores the urgency of strengthening legal frameworks, enhancing law enforcement, and fostering international collaboration to address challenges of human trafficking in Southeast Asia.