Immigration Department Warns Employers Over Foreign Workers’ Documents

Kuala Lumpur, September 29, 2025 – The Immigration Department has issued a strong reminder to employers following a surge in cases where foreign workers are detained during routine enforcement checks for failing to produce their travel documents.

Basri Othman, Director of the Enforcement Division, said many detained foreign workers often claim that their passports are being held by employers. He stressed that this practice exposes both workers and companies to unnecessary complications.

“My advice to employers is simple — ensure that passports and related documents belonging to your foreign workers are either with them or kept nearby, such as at their place of work,” Basri told Harian Metro.

He explained that even legally employed workers may be sent to detention centres for verification if they cannot present valid documentation during inspections. This, he warned, could lead to delays and disrupt business operations.

To avoid such incidents, Basri urged employers to maintain easy access to physical documents for all foreign workers under their employment.

“Immigration enforcement operations are not meant to inconvenience businesses, but to ensure public order and national security,” he added.

Basri also reminded employers that hiring or harbouring undocumented migrants is a serious offence under the Immigration Act, and strict legal action will be taken against offenders.