Immigration steps up 3 operations to curb employment of undocumented migrants
KUALA LUMPUR: The government is carrying out three targeted operations to curb the presence of undocumented migrants in the employment sector and prevent their involvement in unauthorised business activities.
The Malaysian government is conducting three focused operations, named Op Hijau, Op Jaja, and Op Belanja, to reduce the number of undocumented migrants working unlawfully in various sectors. These operations are led by the Home Ministry and the Immigration Department. Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail confirmed that the government remains committed to enforcing policies against the presence of foreigners, particularly undocumented migrants.
The operations target specific industries, such as Op Hijau focusing on agriculture, including plantations and nurseries, Op Jaja targeting night and farmers markets, and Op Belanja focusing on supermarkets, grocery shops, and furniture stores. Between January 1 and September 15, 2025, the Immigration Department conducted 2,644 operations under these initiatives, inspecting 19,192 individuals.
This led to the arrest of 4,168 undocumented migrants and the identification of 299 employers suspected of immigration-related offenses.
In addition to targeted enforcement, the Immigration Department has enhanced inspections at high-risk locations where pass abuse, undocumented migrants' employment, or unauthorized work occurs. They conducted 11,790 enforcement inspections nationwide during the same period. Joint operations with local authorities, the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry, and the Companies Commission of Malaysia have also increased, totaling 685 during the same timeframe.
To further deter employment of undocumented migrants and work involving foreigners in illegal economic activities, the Immigration Department has deployed officers using an omnipresence approach. This strategy aims to increase the visibility and presence of enforcement personnel. The Home Ministry will continue to strengthen intelligence-led operations, respond to public complaints, and enhance inter-agency cooperation to ensure comprehensive and effective enforcement.
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