PUTRAJAYA: The Immigration Department has introduced a new Migrant Repatriation Programme, set to begin on March 1, aimed at allowing foreigners without a valid travel pass or those who have overstayed in Malaysia to return home. Under this program, these individuals will only be fined RM500 for overstaying, while those who have violated their travel passes or permits will be charged RM300.
Director-general Datuk Ruslin Jusoh stated, “No one under the programme will be prosecuted. All they need to do is surrender themselves so that they can be processed and sent home instead of staying in Malaysia illegally. The programme will run until December 31.”
Ruslin emphasized that undocumented foreigners should not fear being arrested if they come forward to participate in the program. He said, “We will not take action against those who surrender themselves for the programme. Don’t be afraid, just surrender yourself and we will process your return home.”
He also highlighted the importance of this assurance, noting that fear of arrest could lead to unscrupulous individuals acting as agents and overcharging the foreigners seeking to return home. While court action will not be taken against participants in the repatriation program, they are required to pay a fine to exit the country.
In addition to the fine, foreigners must have a passport or valid travel document from their country of origin and a one-way ticket with a departure date within 14 days from their application. Payment for the fine is cashless, as the department no longer conducts cash transactions. Those below 18 years of age will not be fined.
Ruslin mentioned that applicants can visit state immigration offices in the peninsula and Labuan to sign up for the program, noting that Sabah and Sarawak have not yet participated. The department plans to engage with foreign missions, particularly with labour source countries, to explain the programme and encourage overstayed individuals to return home.
He added, “Engagement with embassies is crucial to garner support and aid in providing valid travel documents for repatriation. Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail previously announced on January 31 the launch of the Migrant Repatriation Programme, facilitating the return of undocumented foreigners without facing legal consequences.”
