Migrants can go home unprosecuted through repatriation programme from March 1

Home minister announces initiative to allow undocumented workers to return to home countries after settling compounds owed

Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution has announced that the the Migrant Repatriation Programme, which starts on March 1, will allow undocumented workers to go home without being prosecuted, as long as they settle compounds for the immigration offences that they committed. – Abdul Razak Latif/Scoop pic, January 31, 2024

PUTRAJAYA – The government will implement the Migrant Repatriation Programme from March 1 for undocumented workers to go home without being prosecuted, said Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution.

Speaking at a special media conference today, he said that based on the decision approved during today’s cabinet meeting, undocumented workers who wish to return to their home countries would be allowed to do so after settling compounds for the immigration offences that they committed. 

He said compounds ranging from RM300 to RM500 would be imposed for each immigration offence committed, including entering the country without valid travel documents, violating conditions, and overstaying. 

Previously, the government implemented the Labour Recalibration Programme, which ended on December 31 last year, allowing employers to apply for undocumented foreign workers to meet their labour needs. – January 31, 2024