“Malaysian authorities conducted raids on 12 factories in Johor and Selangor states, where Myanmar and Bangladeshi nationals constitute the majority of workers, resulting in the arrest of approximately 430 foreign nationals. The raids, which took place on February 24, targeted electronic waste processing factories. Out of a total of 745 foreign workers inspected, 317 individuals who possessed complete legal documentation were released, while 428 undocumented workers were detained. According to Assistant Director-General Jafri Embok Taha of the Malaysian Immigration Department, those arrested were nationals from Myanmar, Bangladesh, China, Nepal, Indonesia, Cambodia, and Sudan, aged between 20 and 50 years. While the specific number of Myanmar nationals among those arrested was not disclosed, it is believed to represent a significant portion of the total arrests. During the inspection, undocumented foreign workers attempted to flee and hide but were unsuccessful in their attempts. Additionally, six Malaysian employers were also arrested and charged for illegally employing undocumented workers. All arrested foreign nationals are being detained at immigration detention centers in Pekan Nenas, Johor, and Machap Umboo, Malacca, under the Immigration Act. Prior to these raids, on February 22, authorities had arrested 530 undocumented Myanmar nationals at the Klang Meru Market in Selangor state. On February 20, another 29 Myanmar nationals, including a child, were arrested at the Thai-Malaysian border. The Malaysian government has been intensifying its efforts to effectively control the influx of illegal foreign workers in the country. Regular inspections are being conducted particularly in industrial zones, markets, and construction sites. The recent operations reflect Malaysia’s stricter enforcement of immigration laws and regulations. The authorities are particularly focusing on sectors known to employ large numbers of foreign workers, such as manufacturing, construction, and market areas. The raids have highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by both Malaysian authorities and foreign workers in the country. While the government seeks to maintain legal employment standards and national security, many foreign workers continue to seek employment opportunities in Malaysia, sometimes through irregular channels. These enforcement actions are part of a broader strategy to regulate foreign labor in Malaysia, ensuring that all workers have proper documentation and work permits. The authorities have emphasized that while Malaysia welcomes foreign workers, they must enter and work in the country through legal channels. The arrests have also drawn attention to the need for better coordination between source countries and Malaysia in managing labor migration. The high number of arrests suggests that despite existing regulations and bilateral agreements, irregular migration remains a significant challenge. Local authorities have stated that these operations will continue as part of their efforts to ensure compliance with immigration laws and maintain order in the labor market. They have also warned employers about the serious consequences of hiring undocumented workers, including heavy fines and possible imprisonment. The Malaysian Immigration Department has emphasized that these enforcement actions are not meant to discriminate against any particular nationality but are aimed at ensuring all foreign workers in Malaysia have proper documentation and legal status to work in the country.
