Home minister: Employers account for more than half of Malaysia’s RM91.8m immigration compound collections

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 7 — Immigration compounds have generated RM91.78 million in collections during the first 10 months of 2026, with employers accounting for more than half of the total, according to Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail. The government emphasized that businesses hiring undocumented foreign workers must also face legal consequences.

Saifuddin stated that RM50.04 million, or 54.5 per cent of the total, was collected from 2,459 employers involved in compoundable immigration offences between January 1 and October 31. The remaining RM41.74 million was collected from 29,593 undocumented migrants. This data highlights the Immigration Department's efforts to hold employers accountable for hiring foreign workers without complying with the prescribed regulations.

Saifuddin noted that enforcement efforts should not be limited to targeting undocumented migrants, but should also involve employers who hire foreign workers unlawfully. The minister stressed that employers are responsible for ensuring that foreign workers possess valid documentation and work permits, and adhere to the conditions imposed by authorities.

Saifuddin further emphasized that the collected amount in immigration compounds should not be considered as the sole indicator of enforcement effectiveness. He stressed that tackling undocumented migration necessitates sustained operations, inspections, and monitoring, along with actions against employers who violate immigration laws.

Saifuddin urged the public to report suspected immigration offences to the authorities, rather than resorting to personal actions. He also expressed gratitude towards the Immigration Department's director-general and personnel for their continued efforts, reiterating the importance of maintaining a firm, fair, and integrity-driven approach to ensure compliance with immigration laws.