The Malaysian Immigration Department (JIM) arrested 1,111 employers between January and July 15 this year for various immigration-related offences.
Its Director-General, Datuk Zakaria Shaaban, said employers found to have hired illegal immigrants (PATI) or foreign workers who violated the conditions of their passes or work permits would face strict action under the Immigration Act 1959/63.
Zakaria said the department’s enforcement efforts are not only focused on foreigners who break immigration laws but also on employers who create demand for illegal workers or facilitate breaches of immigration regulations.
“As of July 15, a total of 1,111 employers have been arrested for immigration offences,” he said in an interview with Harian Metro.
He added that JIM has also issued notification letters to local authorities (PBTs) following enforcement operations, informing them of offences detected so they can take further action within their jurisdiction.
This includes reviewing business licences and ensuring compliance with licensing conditions and other regulatory requirements.
According to Zakaria, the integrated approach allows government agencies to share information and coordinate follow-up actions, strengthening enforcement efforts while preventing repeat offences by the same businesses or premises.
