Immigration Department steps up Ramadan enforcement, vows crackdown on illegal traders and undocumented workers at bazaars
KAJANG, Feb 14, 2026 – The Malaysian Immigration Department (JIM) has reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying enforcement operations during Ramadan, with Ramadan bazaars nationwide placed under heightened scrutiny to prevent the involvement of undocumented migrants.
Deputy director-general (Operations) Datuk Lokman Effendi Ramli said enforcement activities will not be relaxed during the fasting month, stressing that compliance with immigration laws remains a top priority.
He explained that Ramadan bazaars often become focal points for enforcement due to the seasonal surge in temporary business activities, where some operators may attempt to employ foreign nationals without valid permits.
“Enforcement will continue without interruption throughout Ramadan. We will strengthen inspections at Ramadan bazaars to ensure they are free from illegal immigrant involvement, whether as traders or workers,” he said after leading Ops Selera in Bandar Sungai Long last night.
Lokman Effendi warned employers not to hire, shelter or facilitate foreign nationals who violate immigration regulations, noting that strict action will be taken under the Immigration Act 1959/63.
Thousands inspected, over 6,200 detained nationwide
Providing enforcement data, he revealed that from Jan 1 until yesterday, the department conducted 1,700 operations nationwide, inspecting approximately 27,000 foreign nationals.
Of that figure, 6,200 individuals were detained for various immigration offences including overstaying, absence of valid travel documents, and misuse of passes or work permits.
The majority of detainees were from Myanmar, Indonesia, Bangladesh and China.
During the same period, 230 employers were arrested for breaching immigration provisions, particularly for employing undocumented workers.
In last night’s operation at a commercial area in Sungai Long, 51 foreign workers — 40 men and 11 women aged between 21 and 36 — were detained after checks on 463 individuals.
Among the offences identified were working outside the approved employment sector, including plantation permit holders found working in restaurants.
All detainees were transferred to the KLIA Immigration Depot for further action.
Lokman Effendi emphasised that Ramadan would not serve as a shield for illegal activities, reiterating that enforcement operations will continue to safeguard lawful business practices and uphold immigration compliance nationwide.
-wilayah.com.my
