Immigration cracks down on foreign nationals misusing social visit passes for work

THE Immigration Department (JIM) has taken a firm stance against foreign nationals found abusing social visit passes to work in establishments such as restaurants and factories, authorities confirmed.

Director-General Datuk Zakaria Shaaban revealed that between 1 January and 9 March, a total of 9,497 foreign nationals were arrested in 2,618 operations conducted nationwide.

Of these, 1,158 individuals were detained specifically for violating conditions under Regulation 39(b) of the Immigration Regulations 1963.

“Most of those apprehended were found misusing the passes provided, particularly Temporary Work Visit Passes and Social Visit Passes, for activities that do not comply with the conditions stipulated,” Datuk Zakaria said.

He noted that the top five nationalities arrested for pass violations were Bangladesh (532 individuals), Thailand (248), Indonesia (111), China (86), and Pakistan (51).

Further, among the 1,158 detainees, 482 were specifically found to have abused Social Visit Passes.

This included 235 Thais, 83 Bangladeshis, 62 Chinese, 62 Indonesians, 13 Pakistanis, and 27 individuals from other countries.

“Preliminary investigations indicate that some of these individuals were actively involved in managing and operating business premises without legal authorisation,” he added.

Datuk Zakaria emphasised that such actions constitute offences under Regulation 39(b) of the Immigration Regulations 1963, as they breach the conditions of the passes issued.

“JIM stresses that enforcement efforts will be continuously strengthened, and no compromise will be given to any foreign national who misuses the country’s immigration facilities,” he said.

Individuals found in breach of immigration laws face a range of penalties, including detention, prosecution, and deportation from Malaysia. - March 12, 2026