KOTA KINABALU – The Malaysian Immigration Department in Sabah has confirmed the detention of 62 foreign nationals during a series of enforcement operations across three districts. The coordinated actions, carried out in Kota Kinabalu, Kudat, and Sandakan, were aimed at tackling the presence of undocumented migrants and ensuring compliance with national immigration laws.
In Kota Kinabalu, operations such as Ops Minyak and Ops Selera were conducted, with officers inspecting 13 individuals. Nine foreigners were detained for suspected immigration offences, including failure to produce valid documents and breaches of pass conditions under the Immigration Act 1959/63. Those arrested included two Filipino women, one Indian man, five Indonesian men, and one Indonesian woman.
Meanwhile, in Kudat, the Sweep and Collect Operation inspected 37 individuals. Fourteen foreigners were detained, all of whom were Filipino nationals. The arrests involved five adult men, two adult women, and seven minors comprising four boys and three girls.
Sandakan saw the largest number of arrests. Joint enforcement operations with other agencies inspected 166 individuals, resulting in 39 detentions. Among those arrested were 32 Filipinos, including two men, 29 women, and one girl. Additionally, seven Indonesians were detained, consisting of five men and two women.
The Immigration Department stated that the detainees will be placed in Immigration Detention Depots across Sabah pending investigation and further legal proceedings. Offences identified included overstaying, lack of valid identification, and violations of immigration pass conditions.
Officials emphasised that enforcement operations will continue to be intensified across the state. The department reiterated its commitment to upholding immigration laws under the Immigration Act 1959/63, the Passport Act 1966, and the Immigration Regulations 1963. These measures are part of broader efforts to safeguard national security and maintain orderly management of foreign residents.
The department also reminded employers and members of the public not to harbour undocumented migrants, warning that legal action will be taken against those found guilty of doing so. Authorities encouraged the public to provide information that could assist in identifying and apprehending illegal immigrants, stressing that community cooperation is vital in ensuring effective enforcement.
The series of operations in Sabah reflects Malaysia’s ongoing efforts to address immigration challenges, particularly in states with significant cross-border movement. By targeting business premises and areas suspected of employing undocumented workers, the Immigration Department aims to strengthen compliance and reduce risks associated with illegal immigration.
Officials noted that the presence of undocumented migrants poses challenges not only to law enforcement but also to social and economic stability. Continuous enforcement, combined with public awareness, is seen as essential in maintaining order and protecting the rights of legal residents.
The Immigration Department in Sabah has pledged to sustain its enforcement momentum, ensuring that future operations remain robust and effective. The latest arrests highlight the department’s determination to uphold the rule of law and reinforce Malaysia’s commitment to managing immigration responsibly.
