August 2006
Malaysia's employers stand accused of abusing Indonesian maids. We reveal evidence of mass exploitation, and governments unwilling to intervene in this lucrative business.
"I saw my friends coming back to the village from Malaysia with lots of money... so I came here." But, Nirmala Bonat soon wished she had stayed behind. Her employer "poured hot water over me, pressed an iron to my body and beat me all over". Without legislation to protect the 320,000 Indonesian workers in Malaysia, it is a widespread and growing problem. Whilst Malaysia's Indonesian Ambassador Prince Rushdihardjo worries about those injured that "escape to our embassy," his government is reluctant to complain. It seems the wealth they return to their country is too valuable.
