Kuala lumpur: The visa status held by foreigners does not grant them immunity to break the law in this country. Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail emphasized that firm and stringent action will be taken against any foreign national who violates Malaysia's laws, including breaching pass conditions, posing a security threat, or disturbing public order.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Saifuddin stated that actions such as pass cancellation, blacklisting, and deportation to the country of origin are consistently applied, regardless of the individual's background or status. He stressed that visa status, whether as a student, investor, long-term visit pass holder, or participant in the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme, does not provide immunity from the laws of the country. The safety of Malaysians and the sovereignty of the nation are non-negotiable priorities.
Saifuddin highlighted that the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) consistently carries out its enforcement duties professionally, without discrimination or exceptions based on race or country of origin, especially in cases involving foreigners. He noted that the law investigates all reports involving foreign nationals and takes appropriate action to ensure public safety, including those cases that receive media attention.
He remarked on recent incidents involving foreigners that have gone viral, clarifying that each case is handled properly through existing laws. Additionally, he pointed out that Malaysia permits the recruitment of low-skilled foreign workers only from 15 officially designated source countries, excluding China. The presence of Chinese workers in Malaysia in the low-skilled category is explicitly tied to high-impact government projects like the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL).
Saifuddin provided data stating that as of August 15, a total of 30,679 Chinese nationals were registered as professional expatriates in Malaysia, with the construction sector having the highest number at 10,825. This was followed by manufacturing with 6,407, services with 5,385, information and communications technology with 4,477, and other sectors with 3,585. He clarified that Chinese nationals in Malaysia's workforce are mainly concentrated in professional sectors and large-scale projects requiring specific technical expertise, not in the category of unskilled foreign workers.
In line with the aspirations of the MADANI Government, Saifuddin affirmed that Malaysia remains open to investment, education, and international cooperation, but such openness will never compromise public safety and national sovereignty. He urged Malaysians to remain calm and confident in the authorities' effective execution of their duties.
"Every threat will be dealt with accordingly, to ensure Malaysia remains a safe, sovereign, and prosperous nation for all," he concluded.