Malaysian immigration authorities have detained 306 Bangladeshi nationals and one Nepali citizen over alleged immigration offences, reports Malaysian state news agency Bernama.

The arrests were made during a raid at a factory in Simpang Ampat, Penang, led by Immigration Department Director-General Datuk Ruslin Jusoh. All detainees will be investigated further before being transferred to the Jawi Immigration Detention Depot, Bernama said.

Speaking to the media after the operation, the immigration chief said efforts are ongoing to strengthen enforcement and surveillance across the country. He added that such operations will continue regularly.

Currently, around 800,000 Bangladeshi workers are employed in Malaysia. However, concerns over labour exploitation during recruitment and employment remain a major issue.

Malaysia suspended the recruitment of Bangladeshi workers in May last year, citing irregularities in the hiring process. Discussions are now underway to resume recruitment, ahead of Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus's scheduled visit to Malaysia from August 11 to 13.

The immigration department also said it is working closely with the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency to oversee airport immigration activities. While the agency manages counters, immigration officers are focused on intelligence and monitoring.

Datuk Ruslin said the department remains committed to addressing internal misconduct. Since 2022, 147 disciplinary cases have been filed against immigration personnel, with 55 officers dismissed.

To minimise abuse of power, Malaysia is also expanding the use of digital solutions like auto-gates at entry points, reducing direct contact between travellers and immigration officers.

MN/