Malaysia Conducts Major Immigration Operation, Detains 503 Foreign Nationals

Malaysian authorities have conducted a major immigration operation, resulting in the detention of 503 foreign nationals suspected of violating immigration regulations. The Immigration Department of Malaysia (JIM) stated on Monday that ‘Operasi Mega’ was carried out simultaneously at 16 locations nationwide over two days, beginning Sunday (12/7). The operation targeted business premises suspected of employing or being operated by foreign nationals. This action was taken to ensure compliance with immigration rules and to detect various forms of legal violations. The operation involved 876 officers from various levels of the Immigration Department, supported by personnel from the National Registration Department, the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living, and local authorities. A total of 2,260 individuals were screened during the operation, from which 503 foreign nationals were detained, comprising citizens of Bangladesh, Myanmar, Indonesia, Nepal, India, and several other countries. All detained foreign nationals were aged between 21 and 52 years, consisting of 408 men and 95 women. They will be placed in Immigration Detention Depots across Malaysia to undergo investigation and further proceedings. Identified violations include lacking identity documents, breaching passport usage conditions, overstaying, using unrecognised cards, and various other offences under the Immigration Act. Additionally, 120 witness summonses were issued to Malaysian citizens to assist in the investigation process. The Immigration Department stated that enforcement operations will continue to track, arrest, prosecute, and deport foreign nationals who violate the country’s laws under the Immigration Act 1959/63, the Passport Act 1966, the Immigration Regulations 1963, and the Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Act 2007. The department reminded the public and employers not to harbour undocumented migrants, as they may face legal action.