KUCHING – Immigration authorities in Sarawak detained 27 foreign nationals during a targeted enforcement exercise known as Operation Selera (Ops Selera) on 11 May 2026.
The operation was conducted by the Kuching Immigration Enforcement Division across several restaurant premises in Kuching City.
Among the areas inspected were Tabuan, Taman Samarindah, Jalan Song Business Centre and Taman Berjaya.
The raids followed intelligence gathering and monitoring of food outlets suspected of employing foreign workers without valid permits or work passes.
A total of 28 immigration officers were deployed in the operation. The detained individuals, who were of various nationalities, are believed to have committed offences including overstaying and misuse of immigration passes.
In addition to the arrests, five employers or their representatives were instructed to report to the immigration office to assist with investigations.
They are expected to provide statements regarding the employment of foreign workers and compliance with immigration regulations.
The Sarawak Immigration Department stated that the operation was part of ongoing efforts to ensure employers adhere to labour and immigration laws.
Officials emphasised that enforcement will continue to be intensified to safeguard legal employment practices and maintain order in the state’s labour market.
Ops Selera is one of several enforcement initiatives carried out by immigration authorities in Sarawak. These operations are designed to detect irregularities in employment practices, particularly within the food and service industries where foreign workers are frequently engaged.
Authorities highlighted that the misuse of immigration passes and overstaying remain common offences among foreign nationals.
Such violations not only breach immigration laws but also raise concerns about fair employment practices and the protection of local workers.
The department reiterated its commitment to conducting regular checks and enforcement actions. By doing so, it aims to deter employers from hiring workers without proper documentation and to ensure that foreign nationals comply with the conditions of their stay in Malaysia.
The Kuching operation underscores the government’s broader strategy to strengthen immigration control and uphold the integrity of the labour system.
Officials confirmed that similar enforcement activities will continue across Sarawak to maintain compliance and protect the welfare of all workers.
