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Ahmadul Kobir, Malaysia: Political and social organisations have called for tighter border controls, stricter enforcement of immigration laws and action against employers hiring undocumented migrants at a peaceful rally in Kemaman, Terengganu, on Saturday.
Held under the banner “Kemaman Bebas PATI” (Kemaman Free from Illegal Immigrants), the rally was attended by members and supporters of Dewan Pemuda PAS Kawasan Kemaman, Pemuda UMNO Kemaman and NGO KITA Kemaman.
In a statement after the rally, organisers said the gathering was peaceful and was not intended to incite violence or insult any race or ethnic group. They said the rally was aimed at conveying public demands to the government.
“We respect human beings, but we also respect the law. We uphold humanity, but at the same time, we defend national sovereignty,” the organisers said.
They also called on the government to continue providing humanitarian assistance within Malaysia’s capacity while ensuring that Malaysian citizens are not marginalised.
The rally put forward six key demands to address illegal immigration: Strengthen border controls; Enforce immigration laws more firmly; Crack down on syndicates involved in illegal immigration; Arrest employers who violate immigration laws; Establish clear policies for managing refugees; and Prioritise the safety and well-being of Malaysian citizens.
The organisers said efforts to curb illegal immigration should not target foreigners alone, stressing that employers and syndicates that illegally recruit, shelter or facilitate undocumented migrants must also face firm action.
They said stronger border protection and effective enforcement of existing laws were essential to tackling illegal immigration, while calling for clear policies on refugees and migrants.
The organisers expressed hope that Malaysia would continue to develop as a peaceful, sovereign and humane nation while protecting the interests, safety and welfare of its citizens.
They said they would maintain their peaceful stance in support of public safety, national sovereignty and the rule of law.
The rally ended with slogans including “Long Live the People”, “Long Live Malaysia” and “Malaysia is a Sovereign Nation.”