The Malaysian government has repatriated 242,063 undocumented migrants from 112 countries as part of its intensified crackdown on illegal immigration. The repatriation was carried out under the country’s Migrant Repatriation Programme from May 15, 2025, to June this year.
Deputy Home Minister of Malaysia Shamsul Anuar Nasarah informed the lower house of Parliament, the Dewan Rakyat, on Wednesday that a total of 264,191 foreign nationals had registered under the repatriation programme. Of them, the majority have already been sent back to their respective countries.
The deputy minister said Malaysia’s Immigration Department has stepped up efforts to curb undocumented migration through regular enforcement operations, ensuring compliance with immigration laws, implementing repatriation measures, and coordinating with relevant government agencies.
He said that from January 1 to June 15, 2026, immigration authorities conducted 5,470 nationwide operations. During these operations, the documents and legal status of 76,608 individuals were inspected.
Addressing public concerns over the growing concentration of foreign nationals in certain areas, Shamsul Anuar said monitoring and enforcement activities have been strengthened in locations identified as high-risk areas.
He added that a total of 2,528 inspections were carried out at various locations, including companies employing foreign workers, educational institutions, business establishments, wholesale markets, and residential areas.
In addition, 470 joint operations were conducted in collaboration with the Royal Malaysia Police, the National Registration Department, local authorities, and other relevant agencies to curb illegal activities.
The authorities also carried out 71 special operations with local councils to prevent unauthorized business activities by foreign nationals.
The Malaysian government has reiterated that strict enforcement measures will continue to ensure compliance with immigration regulations and maintain public order.
