Malaysia Immigration Uses Drones to Detect Illegal Foreign Nationals

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Immigration Department has stepped up enforcement efforts by deploying drone technology to identify and track illegal foreign nationals across the country.

According to immigration officials, drones are being used to conduct aerial surveillance in high-risk and hard-to-access areas, including construction sites, industrial zones, workers’ hostels, and densely populated urban locations. The move is aimed at improving the effectiveness and accuracy of enforcement operations.

An immigration officer said the use of drones allows authorities to monitor locations that were previously difficult to enter, enabling faster detection of individuals without valid travel or work documents.

Footage and images captured by the drones are analyzed before ground teams are deployed to carry out targeted operations. The department is also coordinating closely with other enforcement agencies to conduct follow-up raids and arrests.

The Immigration Department said the initiative supports national efforts to safeguard public order, labor market integrity, and national security while ensuring compliance with immigration laws.

Authorities also reminded employers to ensure that all foreign workers under their employment possess valid documentation, warning that strict action will be taken against those found hiring illegal workers.

The department confirmed that drone-assisted enforcement operations will continue as part of its ongoing strategy to curb illegal immigration.