13 Years Trapped. Today, Free.
Summary:
January 2026
A Cambodian woman has been brought to freedom after being trafficked and trapped in forced labour in Malaysia for 13 years.
At 34, Sokha* left her home in Cambodia to pursue a job opportunity in Malaysia that her neighbour had shared with her, including a monthly salary, safe accommodation, and meals. Immediately upon her arrival, however, her passport was taken. Sokha had been trafficked.
Sokha was forced to work in a household of seven, labouring for 18-20 hours a day without pay and without rest. Her movements were controlled, and the property gates were locked to prevent her escape.
Sokha was also subject to sexual violence from the male employer who threatened to kill her if she ever tried to report the abuse.
After over a decade of exploitation, Sokha found a way to contact her mother in Cambodia. Her mother reported the abuse to a local organisation, which contacted the Cambodian Embassy in Malaysia. In partnership with IJM Malaysia’s local implementation partner, Tenaganita, Sokha was brought to safety.
Today, Sokha is free and rebuilding her life. With IJM’s support, she has filed a legal complaint against those who trafficked her as she seeks justice.
Human trafficking is real. It’s happening now. But together, we can stop it.
Learn more about IJM’s work with local authorities to end human trafficking >>
*Pseudonym