CNI News

11 Oct 2022

As Malaysian authorities have announced a fresh general election and illegal migrants in Malaysia are likely to face more arrests, Myanmar organizations in Malaysia have warned them of the risk, the organizations told the CNI.

Secretary Steven of the Alliance of Chin Refugees told the CNI, “Authorities usually make more arrests of migrant workers whenever elections are around the corner. So, it is likely that they will make more arrests this year. Illegal migrants should be very careful with everything including visiting outside and choosing jobs and accommodations. If authorities receive address where illegal workers, they will make arrests in cooperation with immigration officers. Arrests made by the police are not the same as those made by immigration officers. They will launch operations here and there. Immigration officers want to show that they are working hard to target illegal migrants. They should keep their eyes and ears wide open.”

Migrant workers arrested by Malay authorities. (The Star)

Malaysian Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob announced that Parliament would be dissolved to pave the way for earlier elections.

Aljazeera quoted the prime minister as saying fresh elections would be announced within 60 days after dissolution of the parliament.

Therefore, it is speculated that elections are likely to be held in November or December and operations to arrest illegal migrants will be launched during the campaign, Myanmar organizations in Malaysia said.

During such operations, authorities tend to arrest all illegal migrants including holders of cards issued by ethnic organizations as well as by the UNHCR, Director General U Nyi Nyi Lwin of the CAR told the CNI.

Migrant workers arrested by Malay authorities. (Asia News)

He said, “Immigration officers even arrest UNHCR card holders and those who have passports as well as undocumented migrants. Then, they detain all migrant workers. Some of their employers have to come to immigration departments for the release of their workers by showing their passports and work permits. However, some employers do not want to talk with authorities and do not show up for their workers. So, they leave their workers by themselves at the detention centres. UNHCR card holders can also contact the UNHCR office. Those who hold cards issued ethnic communities will not be released.”

Therefore, Myanmar organizations in Malaysia have urged Myanmar migrant workers not to go out or involve in drinking brawls at night.

They also urged Myanmar workers who are officially working in Malaysia to bring their official documents with them.