KUALA LUMPUR: The Immigration Department stressed that enforcement operations against illegal immigrants are carried out continuously and are not seasonal, even during festive periods.
Immigration deputy director-general (Operations) Datuk Lokman Effendi Ramli said firm action is necessary to ensure that the rule of law and national security are always preserved.
"The law must be obeyed by all parties, including foreigners. The Immigration Department always respects the right of foreigners to celebrate festivities in harmony, but the law remains the priority," he said in a statement on Tuesday (March 25).
Earlier, the media reported that several individuals criticised the department for conducting inspection operations at locations frequented by foreigners during the Aidilfitri holidays.
Meanwhile, Lokman Effendi gave assurance that no action will be taken against those who possess valid travel documents and comply with the stipulated regulations.
He said that enforcement operations during festive seasons are necessary to prevent irresponsible parties from taking advantage of any lapse in monitoring.
"If enforcement is relaxed, there is a risk of unlawful activities occurring, including an increase in the number of illegal immigrants. Public safety and order are priorities that cannot be compromised under any circumstances," he said.
He added that every enforcement action is carried out consistently, prudently and with integrity as a preventive measure in the interest of overall national security.
He said the operations were not intended to cause inconvenience to any party. - Bernama
