KUALA LUMPUR: A total of RM1.61mil has been collected in fees for compounds and special passes as part of the latest Migrant Repatriation Programme.
Immigration Department director-general Datuk Zakaria Shaaban (pic) said that a total of 3,288 undocumented migrants registered for the programme between its commencement on May 19 and 22.
“The highest number of undocumented migrants were from Indonesia with 1,561, followed by Bangladeshis with 741.
“The remaining foreigners (who registered with the programme) are from various countries,” he said in an interview.
Zakaria said they received an average of 800 undocumented migrants registering under the programme daily.
“The response, especially in the Klang Valley, has been encouraging.
“So far, some 776 of those who registered have gone back to their home countries,” he said.
Zakaria urged all parties, especially foreigners, employers and the respective embassies, to work together in ensuring the success of the programme.
“The programme not only gives the opportunity for foreigners to return home legitimately, but it also mirrors the government’s balanced approach between the firmness of enforcement and showing compassion.
“It will also be an important indicator of our capabilities to manage migrants systematically and effectively,” he said.
Zakaria also advised those who are eligible for the programme to join as soon as possible.
“The process is simple, transparent and based on clear procedures.
“Don’t wait until enforcement is taken,” he added.
Zakaria said undocumented migrants should take the opportunity to return home safely without the risk of being detained or prosecuted.
“We are ready to assist in terms of advice and other matters throughout the implementation of the programme,” he said.
The programme will run until April 30 of next year.
Charges for the compound ranged between RM300 and RM500, depending on the offences committed by the migrants.
They are also required to pay for a RM20 special pass.
According to earlier reports, Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the programme would end on April 30 next year for Peninsular Malaysia and Labuan.
He said those who had entered the country without a valid pass or had overstayed would have to pay a RM500 compound.
Those who have violated the conditions of their entry passes will incur a fine of RM300.
“A payment of RM20 for a special pass will also be imposed.
“The compound will be exempted for foreign children under the age of 18 who entered without a pass.
“However, their guardian will have to pay for their special pass,” he said.
The programme will not be available for those who had previously applied but failed to return home in the stipulated time.
Those with arrest warrants, who are wanted by the authorities or who have been blacklisted by the Immigration Department are also ineligible.
Employers who continue to employ and accommodate illegal immigrants will face severe measures.
They face a fine of up to RM50,000 for each illegal immigrant, a jail term of up to five years and whipping if convicted.
