Over 450 undocumented migrants arrested in Cameron Highlands operation; 174 are from Bangladesh.

Malaysian immigration authorities have detained 468 undocumented migrants, including 174 Bangladeshi nationals, during a major raid. Large-scale operation targeted the Cameron Highlands district on Thursday.

A force of 547 officers swept through commercial areas, construction sites, and vegetable farms. Raid was conducted between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM local time. According to state news agency Bernama, most detained migrants were packing vegetables and were unaware of the authorities' presence.

Officials screened 1,886 individuals during the operation. From that total, 468 were arrested for immigration offences. Detainees include 175 from Myanmar, 67 from Indonesia, and 20 from Nepal. Group consists of 388 men, 76 women, and four children.

Malaysia’s Immigration Director General, Datuk Zakaria Shaaban, stated the operation was planned for over a month. "Increasing presence of undocumented workers in highland areas has raised serious concerns among the local community," said Datuk Zakaria. He noted these workers often fill jobs locals avoid.

All detainees have been moved to immigration detention centres in Kelantan, Perak, and Selangor for processing. This raid is part of Malaysia's intensified 2025 campaign against illegal immigration. Nationwide, authorities have detained 83,994 undocumented migrants so far this year.

Bangladesh government is expected to engage in diplomatic talks with Malaysia. Discussions will focus on ensuring humane treatment and expediting repatriation procedures for its citizens.