BINTULU – The Sarawak State Malaysian Immigration Department (JIM) Bintulu Division has confirmed the arrest of 47 undocumented immigrants during a two-day integrated operation conducted between 6 and 7 May 2026.
The enforcement exercise was carried out across Bintulu and Samalaju, involving 12 officers from JIM Bintulu alongside eight personnel from the Region 5 Marine Police Force.
The joint effort combined several enforcement strategies, including Joint Ops, Sweep Ops and Shopping Ops, to ensure thorough coverage of targeted areas.
Authorities inspected six locations, ranging from shared housing and residential properties to flats and business premises.
A total of 59 individuals, both foreign nationals and locals, were checked during the operation. Of these, 47 Indonesians were detained, comprising 40 men, four women and three girls.
The detainees were found to have committed various offences under the Immigration Act 1959/63. These included overstaying visas and failing to produce valid travel documents, breaches categorised under Section 15(1)(c) and Section 6(1)(c) of the Act.
The department highlighted that such enforcement measures are essential to maintaining public order and ensuring compliance with immigration laws.
Officials stressed that similar operations will continue to be intensified across Sarawak to curb the presence of illegal immigrants and safeguard community safety.
The arrests underscore ongoing challenges faced by enforcement agencies in monitoring immigration compliance, particularly in industrial and urban centres such as Bintulu and Samalaju.
These areas have seen steady growth in economic activity, which has also attracted foreign workers. Authorities have reiterated that while legitimate labour is welcomed, adherence to immigration regulations remains non-negotiable.
The operation reflects the government’s broader commitment to strengthening border control and addressing irregular migration.
By working closely with other enforcement units, JIM Sarawak aims to reinforce its capacity to detect and act against violations swiftly.
Community members have been urged to cooperate with enforcement agencies by reporting suspicious activities and ensuring that employers comply with legal requirements when hiring foreign workers.
Officials noted that public vigilance plays a crucial role in supporting the effectiveness of such operations.
The department concluded that the arrests serve as a reminder of the importance of lawful entry and residence in Malaysia and that enforcement will remain a priority to protect both national security and social stability.
