Perlis Immigration Department forms a special task force to monitor and verify the presence of Rohingya in the state.
KANGAR: The Perlis Immigration Department (JIM) has established a special task force under its Enforcement Division to carry out monitoring, tracking and verification of records on the presence of the Rohingya ethnic community in the state.
Perlis Immigration director Mohammad A’sim Md Ali said the task force is formed to obtain a more accurate picture of their presence in the state, while also strengthening enforcement actions through a comprehensive and targeted approach.
“The department is of the view that this issue must be handled professionally, prudently and based on verified facts and data. Any enforcement action will be carried out in accordance with the Immigration Act 1959/63 and current directives in force,” he said in a statement today.
On June 19, media reported that the presence of the Rohingya ethnic group was allegedly increasing in several locations in Perlis, raising concerns among locals.
Mohammad A’sim said initial checks found that most of those identified within local communities in the state possessed registration cards issued by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).
He said the department regularly receives information and complaints from the public regarding the presence of foreigners, including Rohingya, in several locations across the state.
Each complaint, he said, will be thoroughly investigated and assessed before any enforcement action is taken in accordance with existing legal provisions.
“Complaints received typically involve issues such as the presence of undocumented foreigners, employment activities, settlements, and business operations believed to be carried out without authorisation,” he said.
He added that 39 Rohingya individuals had been handed over to Perlis JIM by relevant departments and agencies, and initial checks found that they did not possess valid travel documents and are currently undergoing investigation and further action under the Immigration Act 1959/63.
“Perlis JIM remains committed to ensuring continuous enforcement and compliance with existing laws. The department also conducts regular enforcement operations at business premises, settlements and high-risk locations,” he said.
Meanwhile, Mohammad A’sim said the Enforcement Division carried out 153 enforcement operations, including 34 intelligence and monitoring activities, between January and May this year.
He said the operations resulted in 118 foreign nationals being arrested for various immigration offences, with compounds totalling RM369,570 collected.
