KOTA KINABALU: Nov 5, 2026 — The Malaysian Immigration Department (JIM) Sabah has taken firm action by deporting 909 undocumented migrants (PATI) from the Philippines and Indonesia to their home countries via sea routes today.
A total of 802 Filipinos from the Kota Kinabalu and Papar Immigration Depots were deported via Sandakan Port to Zamboanga City Port aboard the vessel MV Antonia 1. The remaining 107 Indonesians from the Tawau Immigration Depot were repatriated to Nunukan Port.
JIM Sabah stressed that all detainees had completed their sentences in accordance with the law and possessed valid travel documents before being repatriated.
The aggressive action by JIM Sabah brings the total number of undocumented migrants relocated to their home countries this year to 8,405. This involved 6,165 Filipinos, 1,896 Indonesians and 344 nationals of other countries.
To ensure there is no influx of undocumented migrants, JIM Sabah issued a stern, uncompromising warning to employers who harbour workers without valid documents.
“Employers who collude may face a RM50,000 fine, imprisonment and caning,” JIM Sabah stressed.
JIM Sabah also urged all employers to participate in the Sabah State Government’s digital registration programme for foreign workers, particularly in the plantation sector.
Source: Malaysian Immigration Department Sabah State
