KUCHING – Seventeen foreign nationals were taken into custody during an early morning immigration operation across several residential areas in the city on 1 May.
The coordinated enforcement action was carried out by the Malaysian Immigration Department Sarawak with the aim of ensuring compliance with immigration laws and safeguarding public order.
The operation involved 28 officers who conducted inspections at shared houses and rented rooms identified as common settlement areas for foreigners.
Authorities confirmed that 16 of those arrested were Indonesian citizens, while one Pakistani man was found without valid travel documents or a passport.
Officials stated that the exercise was part of ongoing efforts to detect and act against individuals who contravene immigration regulations.
Such operations are regularly conducted to maintain legal compliance and to address concerns about undocumented residents in Sarawak.
Immigration enforcement in Malaysia has been intensified in recent years, particularly in states like Sarawak, where cross-border movement is frequent.
The department has emphasised that foreign nationals must adhere strictly to visa and permit requirements, and failure to do so can result in detention, fines, or deportation.
The arrests highlight the challenges faced by local authorities in monitoring and regulating foreign workers and residents.
Many undocumented individuals are believed to reside in rented accommodations, making targeted inspections a necessary measure to uphold the law.
Community leaders have expressed support for these enforcement actions, noting that they help maintain social stability and ensure that all residents comply with national regulations.
The Immigration Department has also urged employers and landlords to cooperate fully with inspections and to ensure that foreign tenants or workers possess valid documentation.
The department reiterated its commitment to conducting similar operations in the future, stressing that compliance with immigration law is essential for the safety and well-being of the wider community.
The latest arrests serve as a reminder that authorities remain vigilant in addressing illegal residency and protecting Sarawak’s social and economic environment.
