KUCHING, Dec 4: There is a need to refine the border control process in order to prevent the entry of illegal immigrants and curb the import of Covid-19 disease into the state, said Minister in the Chief Minister’s Department (Integrity and Ombudsman) Datuk Talib Zulpilip.
He said the cases of illegal immigrants entering the state had occurred since back then, and to reduce the numbers has been a challenge for the state’s enforcement.
“The control at the state’s entry points involving the police and the immigration enforcement is crucial, and if the process is not being rectified or refined, these problems would be out of hand,” said Talib during a press conference held at Borneo Convention Center Kuching (BCCK) today.
He noted, there are records of the immigrants who entered into the state, but there is no record of them leaving after their permit has expired, and some are even staying without documentation.
According to Talib, these unregistered illegal immigrants’ whereabouts are unknown and would contribute to crime problems in the state.
“This matter must be addressed, especially during this time of Covid-19 pandemic. If they are not properly registered and their whereabouts are unknown, then the efforts to curb and stop the spread of the pandemic will be difficult.
“That is why there is a need for a refined process, especially involving the border control and the records of departments. If not, we are back to square one,” he added.
Talib also pointed out that these illegal immigrants, mostly are here to work and earn their living, but it is difficult to control them without any information about them.
He also agreed with the efforts taken by the authority to tighten the procedure and process in handling this matter, as it also involves national security.
“If they are found to have overstayed and also without any proper documentation, they must be sent back. This has not only happened in Malaysia, but in every country in the world too.
“It does not mean that we are the bad guys, but we are putting the country’s interest first,” he said. –DayakDaily.
