CHAPTER 4 - REPORT OF THE ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND CULTURAL RIGHTS WORKING GROUP During a briefing by the Council, the team had the opportunity to listen to concerns expressed by rescued victims. The team then inspected the premises and amenities provided. Based on the discussion and visit, the Commission made a number of observations. (i) Security A high electrified fence surrounds the shelter. The Council’s representative explained that this is necessary to prevent potential traffickers from entering the compound. A security unit, currently consisting of 67 RELA members, guards the shelter. This unit is headed by a deputy commandant from the Prison Department. The premises are also monitored through closed-circuit television cameras. (ii) Healthcare services The Commission’s team was led to understand that rescued victims are provided with psychological and physical healthcare services and support, including counselling. Victims are kept busy with a number of indoor and outdoor sports and recreational activities that also serve as therapeutic exercise. Physically ill victims are taken to clinics or hospitals for treatment. (iii) Telephones While the shelter does not provide telephones, victims are permitted to bring in mobile phones, so that they can contact family members. They pay the associated costs. (iv) Standards at shelters The Commission was told that the shelters have received visits and assessments by officials of the Australian Government and the International Organisation for Migration (IOM). A post-visit assessment by IOM in a report entitled The Provision of Protection to Victims of Trafficking in Malaysia – An Assessment of Malaysia’s Shelter for Trafficking Victims includes a list of recommendations that are being considered by the Government. (v) Feedback from victims Through discussions and interviews, victims informed the Commission that they were satisfied with the condition of the premises, the facilities and treatment provided by officials. However, they were concerned about the court’s pace in setting a date to record their statements. Several victims had been at the shelter for nearly 10 months due to this. Many said their families do not have any source of income in Bangladesh. Their extended stay has therefore created psychological stress because they are unable to provide for their families. The Council later informed the Commission 70 ... they were concerned with the court’s pace in setting a date to record their statements. Several victims had been at the shelter for nearly 10 months ....... Their extended stay has created psychological stress because they are unable to provide for their families.