Kuala Lumpur: The Home Ministry, through the Immigration Department, is in the process of extending the Migrant Repatriation Programme, which is set to conclude on March 31. Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail announced the extension as part of a new approach to handling immigration issues.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Immigration Department is currently seeking approval from the Attorney General’s Chambers to implement a compound-based approach instead of prosecution. This initiative offers a path for affected immigrants to return to their home countries, particularly in time for Aidilfitri, by paying a compound fee rather than facing legal proceedings.

Saifuddin Nasution discussed the extension during the ‘Penerapan Nilai-Nilai Murni’ programme and a breaking of the fast event at Masjid Kampung Permatang Tok Dik. He emphasized that the programme allows foreigners who have violated the Immigration Act to voluntarily come forward, settle the compound, and be repatriated without the risk of prosecution.

He also noted the consequences for immigrants who do not take advantage of the programme. Those who remain and are apprehended in immigration enforcement operations will be detained and placed in a depot. Offences such as entering without valid documents, misusing visit passes, and overstaying fall under the Immigration Act.

Saifuddin Nasution further mentioned that last year, the government collected RM120 million through the Migrant Repatriation Programme, highlighting its effectiveness and importance in managing immigration issues.