KUCHING – A Sarawak man has been sentenced to two years in prison after being found guilty of smuggling six Indonesian migrants in Lundu. The ruling was delivered by the Kuching High Court on 14 July 2026.
The accused, Chong Soon Foh, was convicted under Section 26J of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Act 2007 (Act 670).
The offence carries a maximum penalty of five years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to RM250,000, or both. After reviewing the evidence, Judge Wong Siong Tung handed down a two-year custodial sentence.
Investigations revealed that the incident occurred on 21 April 2025 at approximately 3.21 pm along Jalan Pan Borneo, Kampung Stom Muda, Lundu.
Chong was found to have used a Toyota Wish vehicle, registration number QAE 8661, to transport six Indonesian nationals who had been smuggled into Sarawak.
The Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Act was introduced to strengthen Malaysia’s legal framework against human trafficking and migrant smuggling.
It provides for strict penalties to deter individuals from engaging in such activities, which are considered serious offences against national security and sovereignty.
Authorities have consistently highlighted that migrant smuggling poses risks not only to national borders but also to the safety of those being transported.
Migrants are often subjected to dangerous conditions, exploitation, and lack of legal protection. By enforcing the law, the government aims to safeguard both national interests and human rights.
The Malaysian Immigration Department has reiterated its commitment to intensify enforcement against migrant smuggling.
Officials stressed that strict action will continue to be taken against individuals involved in cross-border crime.
The department also urged members of the public to report suspicious activities to assist enforcement agencies in curbing illegal migration.
Sarawak, with its extensive border areas and proximity to Indonesia, has been a focal point for enforcement operations.
Authorities have conducted regular patrols and intelligence-led investigations to detect smuggling activities. The latest conviction underscores the seriousness with which the courts treat offences under the Act.
Legal experts note that sentencing under Section 26J reflects the judiciary’s role in reinforcing deterrence. While the maximum penalty was not applied in this case, the two-year sentence sends a clear message that migrant smuggling will not be tolerated.
Community cooperation remains vital in combating such crimes. The Immigration Department has encouraged residents to share information that could help prevent smuggling and trafficking.
Officials emphasised that public vigilance is essential in maintaining security and protecting vulnerable individuals from exploitation.
The conviction of Chong Soon Foh highlights the ongoing challenges faced by enforcement agencies in Sarawak.
With continued operations and public support, authorities aim to reduce incidents of migrant smuggling and strengthen Malaysia’s border security.
