It is believed that this is happening under the watchful eyes of a syndicate.

This was recently confirmed by Human Resources Minister Datuk Dr S. Subramaniam, who said he had information that some contractors, who were believed to be related to each other, were heading the operations in the three states.

He said numerous police reports had been lodged by workers who escaped and that the matter was under investigation.

The case of Letchumy is probably the tip of the iceberg. Based on accounts of other workers who escaped, there are still many being exploited and forced into estate slavery.

The pastor who is caring for Letchumy and her family says he has received threats from the contractor and his men, and has been asked to hand over the family to them.

"Several men came to my place and shouted at me to release them, saying they belonged to the contractors and I had no right to keep them.

"They threatened to harm me and said they would get the family back at all costs."

The pastor says he is shocked that the contractors are able to trace the family so quickly.

He says he will move them to another location to ensure their safety.

"There is no doubt that these contractors are well-connected and I am very afraid for the family's safety. Someone is giving them information. Something must be done soon to stop this atrocity."

He says he has met state executive councillor and Asahan state assemblyman R. Perumal over the matter.

Perumal has been helping to feed the family and has promised to help the children get proper documents.

On Aug 1, the Human Resources Ministry implemented a registry making it mandatory for contractors to register their workers.

A committee consisting of representatives from the ministry, police and registration and welfare departments was formed to oversee the well-being of such workers.