Illegal immigrants in Malaysia comprise a substantial portion of the Malaysian population, numbering as many as two million by some estimates. Most of them are from nearby Southeast Asian countries such as Indonesia and the Philippines. Illegal migrants tend to take odd jobs unpalatable to the local populace, such as working in construction sites. Although their presence in Malaysia is against the law, the Malaysian government did not make a serious effort to deport illegal migrants until early 2005, when it was feared that displaced Indonesians affected by the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami would swamp the country.

Demographics

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As of 2005, it is estimated by the government that there are as many as 1.2 million illegal immigrants in Malaysia, a substantial number of them hailing from Indonesia, Malaysia's poorer neighbour. "Malaysia extends amnesty for illegal immigrants". (Dec. 29, 2004). Yahoo!. However, a sizeable number are of Filipino, Han Chinese or Indian origin. "Malaysia suspends migrant sweep". (Feb. 1, 2005). BBC News.

The government's estimate of 1.2 million illegal immigrants may be a conservative number, however. Some non-governmental organisations (NGOs) have placed the number of illegal immigrants in the state of Sabah alone in the realm of two million, comprising two-thirds of the state's population. Quek, Kim (Feb. 9, 2006). "Demographic implosion in Sabah? Really?". Malaysiakini.

2005 deportation

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After the tsunami of 2004, the government announced plans to forcibly repatriate as many illegal immigrants as possible, with harsh punishments — including steep fines and heavy whippings — imposed on those who disobeyed or aided illegal immigrants in their efforts to remain in Malaysia. The original deadline set was February 1 2005; by this date, 400,000 had already left voluntarily. Due to the effectiveness of their efforts, the government announced they would not launch the crackdown as planned, delaying it to an undetermined date. Fernandez, Clarence (Feb. 2, 2005). "Malaysia dons velvet glove in immigrant crackdown". Reuters.

Illegal citizenship

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Although by virtue of their illegal status, illegal immigrants may not apply for Malaysian citizenship, some have attempted to procure it illegally by buying MyKads and passports on the black market. In Sabah, it was reported that 800,000 MyKads had been issued to people who eventually left the state. As Indonesians who have citizenship would be classified as Malay under Article 160 of the Constitution, it has been feared that thousands of illegal immigrants not only received privileges meant for Malaysian citizens, such as the right to vote, but also privileges meant for the Bumiputra, which include allocations of public shares, discounts on real estate, etc.

Notes and references

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Malaysian society