PETALING JAYA: The Migrant Repatriation Programme (PRM) 2.0 has been extended to next year.
In a statement yesterday, Immigration Department director-general Datuk Zakaria Shaaban said the programme, which was slated to conclude yesterday, has been extended to May 31, 2027.
“PRM 2.0 has recorded significant achievements, including a high number of registrations, consistent voluntary repatriations and encouraging compound collections, contributing to a reduction in the presence of illegal immigrants,” he said.
He noted that from May 19, 2025 to April 29, 2026, a total of 254,186 foreigners from 112 countries registered for the programme, with total revenue collection amounting to RM127mil.
“This demonstrates the effectiveness of a voluntary compliance approach in managing national migration.
“The extension is implemented to expand voluntary compliance among illegal immigrants, while accelerating the process of systematic repatriation and optimising the management of national enforcement resources,” he added.
Zakaria warned that the department would step up enforcement actions at the same time.
“We will continue to intensify comprehensive and continuous enforcement actions through integrated operations, intelligence and monitoring nationwide to detect, arrest, prosecute and deport those who violate immigration laws, including employers or parties who harbour them,” he said.
He urged illegal immigrants to resolve their status through legal channels before enforcement action is taken.
