By: Nurul Fazliana Norman
KOTA KINABALU: Oct 11, 2026 — A total of 84 undocumented migrants were detained by the Malaysian Immigration Department (JIM) Sabah in 15 enforcement operations across five districts in the state from Oct 5 to 8.
Sabah JIM director Datuk Sh Sitti Saleha Habib Yussof led the operations, which were carried out in Tawau, Semporna, Sandakan, Keningau and Kudat to curb the presence of undocumented migrants and check the misuse of immigration facilities.
According to JIM Sabah, 293 individuals were screened during the operations, with 84 detained on suspicion of violating immigration laws.
Of those arrested, 51 were Filipinos — 22 adult men, 23 adult women, three boys and three girls.
Also detained were 28 Indonesians, comprising 14 adult men and 14 adult women, as well as three Pakistani men, one Indian man and one Vietnamese woman.
JIM Sabah said enforcement operations would continue continuously at strategic locations throughout the state to ensure compliance with immigration laws.
The public was also reminded not to harbour, employ or assist foreigners who violate the country’s laws.
Any information on undocumented migrant activities can be channelled through the Public Complaints Management System (SISPAA) at https://spab.gov.my or the Online Inquiry System (SPO) at https://eapp.imi.gov.my.
Source: Sabah Immigration Department
