Some 55,000 Malaysian non-Muslims wedded foreign nationals over last 6 years

BETWEEN 2019 and 2025, a total of 55,458 marriages were registered in Malaysia involving non-Muslim citizens marrying foreign nationals, according to figures released by the National Registration Department (JPN).

Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the highest number of foreign spouses came from China and Vietnam, followed by Singapore, Thailand, and Indonesia.

“Chinese nationals accounted for 9,195 marriages with Malaysians, comprising 3,030 men and 6,165 women, while Vietnam recorded 8,620 marriages, all involving Vietnamese women,” he said in a written reply published on the Parliament website.

He added that Singaporean nationals were involved in 8,802 marriages (5,910 men and 2,892 women), Thai nationals in 5,186 (all women), and Indonesians in 4,263 (all women).

“Together, these five countries accounted for 36,066 of the 55,458 marriages between Malaysian non-Muslims and foreign nationals,” Saifuddin noted.

Responding to questions on family reunification and the rights of foreign spouses, he explained that Malaysia’s immigration policies fall under the Immigration Act 1959/63 and the Immigration Regulations 1963, which regulate entry, residence, and activities of foreign nationals in the country.

Under Regulation 11, spouses of Malaysian citizens may apply for a Long-Term Social Visit Pass (PLSJP) under the Spouse Category, enabling them to reside legally in Malaysia for family unification purposes.

Saifuddin stressed that the pass does not automatically confer the right to work, as its primary purpose is family residence rather than employment.

“Any paid employment requires a relevant work pass, in accordance with Regulation 9,” he said.

However, he added that, as a family welfare measure, PLSJP holders may apply for work endorsement on a case-by-case basis through the Immigration Department, subject to security checks, background assessment, job type, and compliance with immigration and labour laws.

“This permission is conditional and renewable in line with the status of the valid marriage,” Saifuddin affirmed.

The data and policy clarifications underscore Malaysia’s ongoing effort to balance immigration control with family reunification, offering foreign spouses lawful residency while regulating their employment rights. - February 11, 2026