Residents Report Disturbances Prompting Immigration Action in Petaling Jaya
Petaling Jaya police and immigration authorities initiated significant enforcement measures along Old Klang Road following multiple complaints from local residents in Selangor. Concerns were raised regarding alleged illegal squatter activities and disturbances believed to be caused by foreign nationals residing illegally in the area. The operation, conducted in the late evening of 15th December, sought to address ongoing public safety and order issues reported within the vicinity, including Seri Kembangan and nearby locales such as Batu Caves. The focus was on identifying and apprehending individuals involved in immigration offences that contributed to community disruption and concerns about safety.
Operation Details and Community Impact During the Enforcement Activity
The large-scale raid commenced at approximately 9:40pm after a two-week investigation prompted by resident complaints. Immigration officers inspected 131 individuals, comprising 82 foreign men, 34 foreign women, and 15 Malaysian nationals. The enforcement officers identified and detained 90 illegal immigrants, with ages ranging from 21 to 35, hailing from multiple African nations such as Nigeria, Yemen, Syria, Somalia, Guinea-Bissau, Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Mali. Additionally, detainees came from 16 Asian countries including Indonesia, Myanmar, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Thailand, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and India.
Official Statements Highlight Immigration Offences and Legal Procedures Following the Raid
Datuk Zakaria, Director-General of the Malaysian Immigration Department, stated that the operation was in response to notices of illegal assemblies and activities that affected the local community’s quality of life. Investigations revealed that many detainees were involved in serious immigration violations, notably overstaying their legal period and using invalid travel documents. Some were found exploiting expired passes while operating stalls and conducting business within parking lots, eateries, and restaurant perimeters along Old Klang Road.
These activities reportedly persisted late into the night, compromising public safety and social order. Additionally, the owner of a restaurant at the operation focus point was summoned and charged on site for alleged complicity or support of illegal activities and was directed to report to the Immigration Department for further inquiry.
All detained persons are currently being investigated under Section 51(5)(b) of the Immigration Act 1959/63 and have been transferred to the Immigration Depot at Kuala Lumpur International Airport awaiting further action. Authorities have underlined their firm stance on immigration law enforcement, emphasizing that there will be no tolerance for illegal residency, overstaying, or misuse of passes, with strict legal consequences for both individuals and entities involved in harbouring or employing illegal immigrants.
Public and Online Discussions Reflect on Illegal Immigration and Community Safety
The enforcement has sparked discussions across social media platforms and public forums. Focusing on the challenges faced by urban areas like Petaling Jaya in managing illegal immigrant populations and maintaining social harmony. Observers note that while enforcement is necessary to uphold safety and legal standards. The issues of illegal employment and insufficient urban management also require comprehensive policy approaches. Industry voices have emphasized the importance of coordinated efforts between immigration authorities, local councils, and civil society to prevent recurring disturbances and enhance community welfare.
Potential Effects on Traffic, Safety, and Future Regulatory Measures in the Area
In the short term, the raid caused minor traffic disruptions along Old Klang Road due to the presence of enforcement officers and the processing of detainees. Residents and business operators in the vicinity experienced temporary disturbances, though these were managed without significant incident. Looking ahead, the operation is expected to reinforce stricter compliance with immigration and public safety regulations within Selangor’s urban centres, including Petaling Jaya and surrounding areas such as Seri Kembangan and Batu Caves.
Authorities may consider implementing enhanced monitoring and community engagement initiatives to reduce illegal activities and improve safety standards. While this enforcement represents a decisive measure, the trends indicate an ongoing need for coordinated urban governance. Immigration oversight to address the complexities of migration and public order effectively.
Location: Petaling Jaya
Date: 16 December 2025
