Malaysia conducts major immigration raids detaining hundreds of undocumented migrants

Malaysian authorities have conducted several large-scale enforcement operations targeting undocumented migrants across various regions. In Kuala Lumpur, an integrated operation known as ‘Ops Mega’ resulted in the detention of 472 foreign nationals in the Lebuh Pudu area. The detainees, aged 18 to 62, included citizens from Bangladesh, Myanmar, the Philippines, Nepal, Pakistan, Indonesia, India, China, Zimbabwe, and Saudi Arabia. Many were found without valid identification, overstaying visas, or violating pass conditions.

In Kelantan, authorities detained 171 individuals for illegal border crossings between Malaysia and Thailand from January 1 to August 31. This group included 110 Malaysians and 58 Thais, with others from Indonesia, Myanmar, and Nigeria. Many used illegal river crossings via boats to avoid official checkpoints.

Additionally, an operation in Terengganu led to the detention of 20 undocumented migrants, primarily from Bangladesh and Indonesia, during inspections at industrial sites and palm oil mills.

In response to rising illegal entries, the Nepali Embassy in Malaysia has issued warnings to its citizens regarding the risks of using illegal routes through Thailand to enter Malaysia. Meanwhile, Malaysia’s Migrant Repatriation Programme 2.0 remains active until May 2027, offering reduced fines for those who voluntarily return.