Sri Aman — The Malaysian Immigration Department has once again shown firm action in enforcing the country’s immigration laws following a successful enforcement operation in a remote plantation area in Lingga, Sri Aman.
The Kuching Immigration Enforcement Division carried out the operation, known as OPS SAPU, on February 5, 2026, targeting workers’ houses located deep inside a palm oil plantation. The operation was the result of intelligence gathering and continuous monitoring by immigration officers to curb the presence of foreigners suspected of breaching immigration regulations in Sarawak.
Reaching the target location was no easy task. Officers had to travel through challenging terrain, narrow estate roads, and plantation paths that required strong physical endurance and high commitment. Despite these conditions, the enforcement team pressed on to ensure the operation could be carried out smoothly and safely.
During the operation, officers also detected deliberate attempts to obstruct enforcement action. The entrance to the workers’ housing area was blocked using wooden barriers and heavy machinery positioned across the road. These actions, believed to be aimed at delaying or preventing inspections, did not stop the immigration officers from carrying out their duties. The team managed to overcome the obstacles and proceeded with the inspection as planned.
A total of 57 occupants were inspected and questioned during the operation. Following detailed checks, 37 foreign nationals were detained for suspected offences under the Immigration Act 1959/63. Among the offences identified were failure to possess valid travel documents and overstaying beyond the permitted period in Malaysia.
All individuals detained were brought to the Immigration Office for further investigation and legal action. The department said the process will be conducted in accordance with existing laws and procedures to ensure fairness while upholding national security and public order.
The Malaysian Immigration Department stressed that enforcement operations like OPS SAPU will continue to be intensified from time to time, especially in remote and high-risk areas such as plantations and construction sites. The department also reminded employers to ensure all foreign workers are legally employed and properly documented to avoid facing strict action under the law.
The authorities reiterated their commitment to safeguarding the country’s sovereignty and maintaining lawful migration practices in Sarawak.
