CHERAS: A total of 347 employers have been penalised by the Immigration Department as of February this year, with compound amounts totalling nearly RM6mil for hiring and harbouring illegal immigrants. Zakaria added that last year, 1,939 employers were penalised, with compounds totalling more than RM36.6mil, reflecting a significant increase in enforcement against errant employers. Common excuses cited by employers, he said, include difficulties in hiring local workers and the lack of new quotas for foreign workers. Zakaria also acknowledged the involvement of unregistered agents who offer foreign workers to employers, but stressed that ultimate responsibility lies with employers. A total of 162 foreign nationals were inspected, with most found to have breached immigration laws, including failing to possess valid documents, lacking work permits, and misusing permits.

Source: The Star April 09, 2026 05:56 UTC