Immigration Dept detains 30,801 foreigners in nationwide enforcement up to May 31

PUTRAJAYA, June 9 — The Immigration Department detained a total of 30,801 foreign nationals for various offences as of May 31 this year.

Immigration director-general Zakaria Shaaban said 2,324 of those detained had misused their immigration passes, including by taking part in activities that were not in line with the purpose of their entry into Malaysia.

He said that, in line with the government’s directive, the department had stepped up enforcement against foreign nationals who breached the conditions of their passes or engaged in employment and business activities without valid authorisation in Malaysia.

“Immigration Department will continue to intensify enforcement operations and strengthen strategic cooperation with ministries, enforcement agencies and local authorities to ensure that all violations of the law are addressed more effectively and comprehensively,” he said in a statement today.

Zakaria said the steps taken include establishing an Enforcement Inspectorate, conducting targeted operations in identified hotspots, taking firm action against employers who violate immigration regulations, and strengthening integrated operations with relevant enforcement agencies.

He said the Immigration Department had also set annual key performance indicators that prioritise action against foreign nationals and employers who violate immigration laws, as part of efforts to reinforce compliance with the country’s laws.

“Immigration Department remains committed to ensuring that immigration facilities are used in line with their approved purposes, and to supporting the government’s efforts to maintain public order, safeguard the integrity of the immigration system and promote a fair economic environment for all,” he said. — Bernama