What are the risks of Covid-19 transmission from these migrants?

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Concerns Raised About Covid-19 Transmission Risks from Undocumented Migrants

Over the past six months, authorities in Sarawak have apprehended 572 undocumented Indonesian migrants attempting to cross the Sarawak-Kalimantan border. These individuals, including women and children, were intercepted while using unofficial routes, commonly referred to as 'rat trails', to enter the state. Following their detention under the Immigration Act 1959/1963, they were subsequently deported under the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988. A significant concern articulated by Deputy Chief Minister Tan Sri Dr James Masing is the potential for these undocumented migrants to be carriers of Covid-19, posing a risk to public health.
Apprehension and Deportation of Undocumented Migrants

State enforcement agencies, comprising the police and military, have been actively involved in intercepting individuals crossing the border illegally. The reported figure of 572 undocumented Indonesians caught over the last six months highlights the ongoing challenges in border control. Upon capture, these migrants were promptly deported back to their country of origin, a measure taken in light of public health concerns.
Concerns Regarding Covid-19 Carriers

The primary concern highlighted is the potential for these undocumented migrants to carry and transmit Covid-19. While the specific details regarding the prevalence of the virus among this group or observed symptoms are not elaborated upon, the apprehension stems from the general understanding of infectious disease transmission. The lack of formal health screenings for individuals entering through unofficial channels amplifies these concerns.
Challenges in Border Security and Enforcement

The recurring nature of these crossings, with many individuals identified as repeat offenders, presents a significant challenge for border security. Deputy Chief Minister Masing noted that the difficulty lies not just in apprehending these migrants but in preventing their return. The options of significantly increasing enforcement personnel to patrol the numerous unofficial routes or completely sealing the border are considered impractical.
Targeting Human Traffickers

As an alternative strategy, emphasis is being placed on prosecuting human traffickers, who are identified as the primary instigators luring Indonesians into Sarawak illegally. Over the last six months, enforcement agencies have arrested 45 local and Indonesian human traffickers under the Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Act 2007. Furthermore, the public has been reminded that harbouring or protecting illegal immigrants is a serious criminal offense.

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What are the risks of Covid-19 transmission from these migrants?

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