Malaysia Urges Indonesia to Stop Turning a Blind Eye to Illegal Immigrants (PATI) Smuggled by Sea

Kuala Lumpur, 13 May 2026 – Malaysia has called on Indonesia to take firmer action and stop “washing its hands” of the ongoing illegal immigrant (PATI) problem, as thousands continue to cross into the country via dangerous sea routes.

The issue of Indonesian PATI infiltrating Malaysia by boat is no longer new, yet it persists despite tightened enforcement by Malaysian authorities. Syndicates involved in human smuggling continue to operate purely for profit, often disregarding the safety of those being smuggled.

Persistent Maritime Infiltration

Recent operations by the Immigration Department of Malaysia (JIM) have repeatedly foiled attempts by groups of Indonesian PATI trying to enter through coastal areas, particularly in Perak, Sabah, and other border states. Many of those arrested were using fishing boats and had paid syndicates up to RM1,500 per person. A significant number were already on Malaysia’s blacklist.

Malaysian authorities emphasise that this is not just a domestic security issue but a bilateral concern that requires stronger cooperation from Indonesia.

Call for Indonesia to Act Decisively

In a strong editorial stance, Berita Harian urged Indonesia not to remain indifferent (“jangan lepas tangan”) and to take concrete steps to stop the flow at its source. This includes cracking down on smuggling syndicates operating from Indonesian waters, improving border patrols, and addressing the root causes that push people to risk their lives for illegal entry.

Impact on Malaysia

The continuous influx of PATI strains Malaysia’s resources, affects national security, job opportunities for locals, and increases the cost of enforcement operations. Malaysia has been conducting regular repatriation exercises, sending hundreds of Indonesian PATI back home, but the problem keeps recurring.

Bilateral talks and joint operations between the two countries have been held in the past, but stronger commitment from the Indonesian side is now needed to “put a full stop” to this issue.

The Malaysian government is expected to raise this matter formally through diplomatic channels to ensure Indonesia plays a more proactive role in curbing illegal sea crossings.

What’s your take? Should both countries intensify joint maritime patrols to solve the PATI problem once and for all?