ARAU – Two foreign nationals have been taken into custody following targeted immigration enforcement activities conducted in the northern state of Perlis. The Malaysian Immigration Department of Perlis carried out these measures during the late evening of 6 August and into the early hours of 7 August 2026.
The operation was executed under the directives of Ops Selera and Ops Sapu, which are ongoing initiatives designed to curb immigration violations across the country. Officers focused their attention on three specific sites located within the Simpang Empat and Arau districts during this particular sweep.
Inspections were conducted at one food establishment and two separate residential properties. These locations were selected based on prior intelligence and routine monitoring patterns that suggest potential non-compliance with national residency regulations.
A total of nine individuals were screened during the course of the night-time operation. Each person underwent verification procedures to confirm their legal status and right to remain in Malaysia under current immigration legislation.
Following thorough checks, two male foreign nationals were arrested on suspicion of violating Section 6(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1959/63. This provision specifically addresses the offence of being present in the country without possessing a valid pass or permit.
One of the detained individuals is a Bangladeshi national, whilst the other hails from Myanmar. Both men are now facing further investigation to determine the full extent of their immigration irregularities and any associated circumstances.
In addition to the arrests, authorities issued a witness summons via Form 29 to another Bangladeshi national. This individual has been required to assist investigators as part of the broader inquiry into compliance at the inspected premises.
The two detainees were subsequently transferred to the Kangar Immigration Depot for processing. Administrative documentation is being prepared, and officers will conduct detailed interviews before determining appropriate legal action in accordance with statutory provisions.
The Perlis State Immigration Department has reaffirmed its commitment to sustained enforcement efforts throughout the state. Regular operations will continue to detect and address violations of immigration laws to uphold regulatory integrity.
Maintaining public safety and order remains a primary objective of these enforcement drives. Authorities stress that compliance with immigration regulations is essential for community security and fair labour market conditions.
Food premises have increasingly become focal points for immigration inspections nationwide. Such establishments often employ foreign workers, making them critical checkpoints for verifying work permits and residency documentation.
Residential properties in rural and semi-urban areas like Simpang Empat are also subject to periodic checks. Overcrowding and unregistered tenancies can indicate underlying immigration issues that require official intervention.
The use of Form 29 summonses demonstrates a procedural approach to gathering evidence beyond immediate arrests. Witnesses may possess information crucial to understanding systemic non-compliance at specific locations or within certain networks.
Kangar Immigration Depot serves as the central processing facility for the state. All detentions and investigations in Perlis are coordinated through this centre to ensure consistency and proper legal oversight.
Section 6(1)(c) violations are among the most common immigration offences encountered during enforcement operations. Individuals found without valid documentation face potential penalties including fines, detention, and deportation.
The department encourages employers and landlords to verify the immigration status of all foreign nationals under their care. Proactive compliance helps prevent legal complications and supports orderly migration management.
Public cooperation continues to play a vital role in successful enforcement outcomes. Community members who observe suspicious activities or undocumented individuals are urged to report concerns through official channels.
Information shared by residents enables authorities to allocate resources more effectively and target high-risk areas. Confidentiality is maintained for all informants to encourage open communication without fear of reprisal.
Night-time operations remain necessary because many violations occur outside standard business hours. Evening and early morning inspections increase the likelihood of detecting unauthorised employment and residency arrangements.
The two arrests in Arau reflect ongoing challenges in managing cross-border movement in border states like Perlis. Proximity to international boundaries requires heightened vigilance and regular enforcement presence.
Immigration authorities emphasise that enforcement is regulatory rather than punitive in intent. The goal is to create transparent systems where all residents comply with laws, protecting both legitimate migrants and local communities.
As Malaysia continues to balance economic needs with immigration control, consistent enforcement ensures fairness. Proper documentation safeguards workers’ rights whilst maintaining national sovereignty and public confidence.
