The Immigration Department of Malaysia (JIM) will intensify enforcement operations against foreigners found to be conducting business activities without approval, in line with the government’s recent directive.
Immigration Director-General Datuk Zakaria Shaaban said a total of 30,801 foreigners were detained nationwide from January until May 31 this year for various offences.
He said out of the total, 2,324 individuals were found to have misused their passes, including engaging in activities not aligned with the original purpose of their entry into Malaysia.
Zakaria stressed that JIM does not compromise on enforcement, particularly involving pass abuse and illegal business activities conducted by foreign nationals.
He said the department has introduced strategic measures, including the establishment of an Enforcement Inspectorate and targeted operations at high-risk locations, to strengthen compliance.
He added that firm action will also be taken against employers who violate regulations by hiring or harbouring undocumented foreigners.
According to him, JIM has also implemented integrated operations with other agencies as part of efforts to enhance enforcement effectiveness across the country.
Zakaria said the department has set annual key performance indicators (KPIs) focusing on enforcement actions against offenders as part of efforts to strengthen immigration law compliance.
He reaffirmed JIM’s commitment to ensuring immigration facilities are used strictly for their intended purposes, while supporting public order, system integrity and a fair economic environment for all parties.
