2019 has been an absolutely amazing year for HAGAR as we marked our 25th year milestone in serving more than 19,000 women and children who have suffered exploitation and abuse. We started in 1994 in Cambodia and are in 9 countries today across Asia.
In Singapore, this year is key as we note the first labour trafficking conviction since the establishment of the Prevention of Human Trafficking Act in 2015. A clear depiction of the government’s zero-tolerance for human trafficking in the country, the prosecution convicted the duo who exploited the women, subjecting them to oppressive conditions and withholding their passports.
At HAGAR, we remain committed to the survivors of human trafficking, slavery and abuse and will continue to help them recover and be empowered with the capacities to stand on their own feet in the community of their choice. Many have affirmed this same mission and joined alongside us and our clients in this journey.
Here’s a quick look at some of the key 2019 highlights:
Be A Voice for the Silenced project – a social initiative launched in conjunction with World Day against Trafficking in Persons on 30th July to generate awareness of human trafficking in Singapore. Five leading designers and artists collaborated with HAGAR to produce a stunning collection of scarves, that would lend courage to a potential trafficked victim.
Graced by MP Christopher de Souza and joined by over 300 guests, the HAGAR Freedom Gala celebrated the transformed lives of victims of trafficking and slavery who have survived tormenting trauma from abuse. Inspired by the moving testimonies by former beneficiaries, the event generated enormous support for HAGAR projects in Asia.
Improving migration outcomes of migrant workers in Singapore with the development of a customised life skills curriculum to empower workers with the means and skills to better navigate challenges in life. Supported by Macquarie Group Foundation, we are so excited about the upcoming launch of the programme in the new year.
Backed up by corporate sponsors, the HAGAR Run for Freedom 2019 at Angkor Wat in Siem Reap Cambodia was a great success! HAGAR teams from Singapore, Cambodia, Australia and New Zealand joined ranks to raise awareness and support for victims rescued from trafficking and abuse in the annual race this year.
The largest Singapore contingent yet, the annual Cambodia Humanitarian Mission saw over 50 Singapore volunteers flying into Phnom Penh to provide health screening for children, build houses for homeless families, feeding the hungry and bringing blessings of cheer to underprivileged communities.
Celebrating all HAGAR volunteers and Interns who make our work possible and a great delight. They serve with joy and gusto helping to produce videos, advertising copy, championing for the cause at their workplaces, opening new doors and helping us make new connections to expand the scope of help available to our beneficiaries.
All of this is made possible with the kind support and contribution from our partners, donors, and supporters. Thank you being such a wonderful blessing and making our work a daily joy. The team from HAGAR wishes you and your family love, joy and peace this Christmas and in the new year ahead.