INDONESIAN AMBASSADOR’S VISIT

TO

GLOBAL SHEPHERDS WOMENS’ SHELTER

FOR

VICTIMS OF TRAFFICKING

Global Shepherds Women’s Shelter (Rumah Perlindungan Global Shepherds) was honoured to play host recently to His Excellency Ambassador Hermono from the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia. The visit was aimed at meeting the Indonesian women currently in our care.
On hand to welcome His Excellency was Good Shepherd Singapore-Malaysia Province Leader Sr. Salomi; Ms. Brittocia Arulanthu, Executive Director of Global Shepherds and Ms. Harbans Kaur, Shelter Manager. Also in attendance were Madam Syuhaida from the National Anti-Trafficking Council (MAPO), Madam Ajanis from the Ministry of Women (MWFCD) and their respective teams.
We had the usual formalities of speech and exchange of mementos, after which the guests indulged in a hearty brunch prepared by the women themselves. His Excellency and accompanying staff then proceeded to mingle with the women, getting to know them, exchanging stories and even songs!
The visit ended with an impromptu sing-a-long led by the residents themselves.

It was a truly enjoyable morning for everyone, and much appreciated by the women to have some sort of connection with home. They were deeply touched by the words of encouragement and the warmth of the entire delegation. Indeed, there was hardly distinction between ambassador, attache and survivor.
The visit provided an opportunity for the delegation to gain further insight in the work we do – our rehabilitation and counselling program – as well as our collaboration with government and enforcement agencies. There was unanimous agreement from all parties present that it certainly takes a village to care for the victims and combat human trafficking.
It must also be noted that the residents of other nationalities were not bereft of attention.
Huge thank you to H.E. Pak Dubes (Mr. Ambassador), Pak Heri who serenaded the women, and everyone from the Embassy. It was happy smiles at the shelter for the rest of the day!

H.E. Pak Dubes Hermono with Ms. Harbans Kaur and Ms. Brittocia Arulanthu

Pak Dubes & Sr. Salomi

Written by : Michele Rozells
Communications cum & Monitoring & Evaluation Officer
Global Shepherds Berhad, Malaysia