Malaysia Arrests 36,900 Undocumented Foreign Workers in Six Months

Malaysia's Immigration Department (JIM) apprehended a significant number of undocumented foreign workers, detaining 36,900 individuals in the first half of 2024. These arrests were the outcome of 6,237 enforcement operations conducted across the country between January 1 and June 30.

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In this period, 84,464 individuals were inspected. In addition, 978 employers were also detained on suspicion of committing offenses under the Immigration Act.

During this period, immigration officers inspected a total of 84,464 individuals. In addition to the undocumented workers, 978 employers were also arrested on suspicion of violating immigration laws. Datuk Zakaria Shaaban, Director-General of Immigration, announced these figures during a press conference following a strategic program with the media.

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From that number, 4,093 foreign citizens were detained, while 133 employers were also arrested for suspected immigration-related offenses.

Operations in June alone led to the inspection of 13,078 individuals, resulting in the detention of 4,093 foreign nationals. Furthermore, 133 employers faced arrest for suspected immigration-related offenses. The most common violations among the detained foreigners included lacking valid travel documents or permits, followed by misusing their existing passes.

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However, they are still subject to other laws. If they commit criminal offenses or violate other laws, action can still be taken by the relevant enforcement agencies.

Regarding the Rohingya refugee population, Zakaria stated that immigration operations would continue as usual, but actions taken would depend on individuals' documentation status. He noted that most Rohingya refugees in Malaysia hold UNHCR cards, which exempts them from immigration offenses like lacking passes or overstaying. However, they remain subject to other laws and can face action from relevant enforcement agencies if they commit criminal offenses or violate other regulations. JIM will collaborate with local authorities and other agencies to address illegal activities such as street vending.

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If they engage in activities such as illegal street vending, JIM will continue to cooperate with local authorities (PBT) and other agencies to conduct enforcement operations.