KUALA LUMPUR: A total of 41,234 illegal immigrants and 1,607 employers have been detained for immigration offences this year, says Deputy Home Minister Datuk Seri Dr Shamsul Anuar Nasarah.
He said from January to November 2024, the Immigration Department carried out 17,825 enforcement operations, leading to the arrests of illegal immigrants under violations of the Immigration Act 1959/63, the Passport Act 1966, and the Immigration Regulations 1963.
He said that the ministry remained committed to ongoing enforcement operations and preventive measures to reduce the number of illegal immigrants in the country.
"From Jan 1 to Nov 14, 2024, the Immigration Department conducted 17,825 enforcement operations, resulting in the detention of 41,234 illegal immigrants and 1,607 employers for related offences.
"As of November this year, the highest number of illegal immigrants came from Indonesia, with 12,588 individuals.
"This is followed by Bangladesh with 7,822 and Myanmar with 7,112," he said during the question-and-answer session in the Dewan Rakyat today.
He said this in response to a supplementary question from Manndzri Nasib (BN-Tenggara) on the outcomes of enforcement operations and arrests of illegal immigrants in Malaysia.
Shamsul Anuar also outlined strategies to tackle illegal immigrants in residential areas and the misuse of tourist visit passes.
He confirmed that inspections at key locations were being carried out, and the ministry is collaborating closely with other authorities, including the police, Customs, and local authorities, to address the issue.
"We are taking all necessary steps and will not compromise on the law or national security, which remains our top priority," he added.