What is the trend of foreigners misusing social visit passes in Malaysia?

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Foreigners Misusing Social Visit Passes for Work on the Rise in Malaysia

The Immigration Department has observed a significant increase in foreigners misusing social visit passes to engage in work or economic activities in Malaysia. Arrests for this specific offense have seen a notable upward trend in recent years, indicating a growing challenge in enforcing pass conditions. This situation has prompted intensified enforcement operations and a designated year for stricter action against such violations.
Increase in Arrests for Pass Misuse

In 2023, the Immigration Department made 1,279 arrests related to the misuse of social visit passes for employment. This number escalated to 2,644 cases in 2024, and a similar figure of 2,630 cases was recorded in the preceding year, 2023. As of July 15 this year, 451 arrests have already been made, reflecting a continued pattern of individuals entering Malaysia on social visit or tourist passes and subsequently undertaking employment that contravenes the terms of their granted passes.
Intensified Enforcement Operations

The department has been actively conducting enforcement operations across the nation to address various immigration offenses. As of July 15, a total of 7,105 operations have been carried out, leading to the detention of 41,596 foreigners for a range of immigration-related breaches. This proactive stance underscores the department's commitment to combating the abuse of immigration facilities and upholding the integrity of the Immigration Act.
Designation of 2026 as Year of Enforcement

In response to the escalating issue of document misuse and breaches of immigration laws, 2026 has been officially designated as the Year of Enforcement. This initiative aims to significantly intensify operations targeting individuals who exploit immigration documents and violate the provisions of the Immigration Act. Furthermore, the department has taken action against 1,127 employers who were found to be harbouring or employing foreigners without the necessary valid permits or passes, signalling a zero-tolerance approach towards complicity in such offenses.

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What is the trend of foreigners misusing social visit passes in Malaysia?

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