For foreign workers like 'Amin' and 'Shamin', Malaysia is where they hoped to find their proverbial pot of gold - this was what they were promised.

Tales spun by agents of high-paying jobs and a life of luxury have lured thousands like them to our shores.

They forked out large sums of money, often selling family heirlooms or mortgaging property, in the hope that they would return home in a few years with bags full of money.

Almost all ended up disappointed working in sweatshops and factories for menial salaries and are subjected to exploitation at every turn. In most cases, entire families are trapped in debt bondage.

Amin is the only son of a small businessperson. His father ...