BANDAR BAHARU: A detainee who is fit can easily disappear after breaking out from the temporary Immigration depot in Jalan Besar Relau here as the area is surrounded by traditional villages, hills, and oil palm estates.
Within several hours of walking, one is able to reach Penang or Perak, or even other states.
This former Seri Impian National Service Camp is strategically located at the border of three states — Kedah, Penang and Perak.
With the Rohingya ethnic being a common figure in Malaysian society, it makes it easier for them to blend in among migrant workers in the country.
A local resident who declined to be named said the camp was quiet for several years after the National Service programme was discontinued.
"Then about two years ago, we noticed that it was turned into a temporary detention centre following the Covid-19 pandemic outbreak.
"It was a good move, at least the camp helped to generate some economic activity for the local folks," he said.
However, following this morning's incident, he said perhaps it was time the government reviewed whether it should remain open.
"Unless the Immigration Department can give an assurance that this incident will not recur, I don't think it is safe to have the camp here," he added.