SUNGAI PETANI – The Kedah State Immigration Department (JIM Kedah) has confirmed the arrest of 22 foreign nationals during a coordinated enforcement operation across eight premises in the Kuala Muda district.
The integrated exercise, conducted on 13 July 2026, involved multiple enforcement campaigns including Ops Bersepadu, Ops Gegar, Ops Sapu and Ops Selera. The operation commenced at 10.00 am and was based on intelligence gathered alongside public tip-offs. A total of 12 immigration officers were deployed, supported by four officials from the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN).
Authorities inspected 76 individuals during the sweep, comprising 52 Malaysian citizens and 24 foreign nationals. Following checks, 22 foreigners aged between 18 and 45 were detained for suspected breaches of the Immigration Act 1959/63 and Immigration Regulations 1963.
The detainees included 15 Myanmar nationals, four Indonesians, two Bangladeshis and one Thai citizen. Offences identified ranged from overstaying permitted periods to lacking valid travel documents and failing to comply with conditions attached to immigration passes.
In addition to the arrests, seven Imm.29 forms were issued to witnesses to assist with ongoing investigations. All detainees were transferred to the Belantik Immigration Depot for documentation and further inquiry before legal proceedings are initiated.
Officials emphasised that the operation was part of a wider strategy to strengthen immigration enforcement in Kedah. The department has pledged to continue conducting regular checks and integrated campaigns to detect and act against illegal immigrants.
Immigration authorities have consistently highlighted the challenges posed by undocumented migration, including risks to public safety, strain on resources and potential exploitation of foreign workers. By intensifying enforcement, the department aims to uphold national sovereignty and ensure compliance with immigration laws.
Ops Bersepadu and related campaigns are designed to target areas where undocumented migrants are suspected to be working or residing. These operations often involve collaboration with other government agencies to ensure comprehensive coverage and effective enforcement.
The Kedah Immigration Department has urged the public to remain vigilant and share information that could assist enforcement teams. Officials stressed that community cooperation is vital in maintaining order and ensuring that immigration laws are respected.
The arrests in Kuala Muda highlight the scale of immigration enforcement efforts in Malaysia, particularly in districts with significant economic activity. Sungai Petani, as a growing urban centre, has been a focal point for such operations due to its diverse population and expanding commercial landscape.
Authorities have reiterated that enforcement measures are not solely punitive but also preventive, aiming to deter future violations and protect both local communities and foreign nationals from exploitation. The department’s approach combines legal action with public engagement, reflecting a broader national commitment to managing immigration effectively.
The latest operation is expected to be followed by similar initiatives across Kedah, as immigration officers continue to monitor compliance and act against offenders. Officials have assured that enforcement will remain a priority, with integrated campaigns forming part of a long-term strategy to safeguard national interests.
