Home Ministry: Foreign begging cases may involve syndicates, 42 detained in KL operations 03.07.2026

The Ministry of Home Affairs (KDN) has raised concerns that foreign begging activities in Malaysia, especially those involving children, may be orchestrated by organized crime syndicates. In a written parliamentary reply, KDN disclosed that from 2025 until May 31 this year, the Immigration Department conducted 836 enforcement operations across Kuala Lumpur and surrounding areas, inspecting 10,609 individuals. Among these, 5,411 foreigners were detained for immigration offenses, with 42 specifically arrested for begging. Investigations are also targeting locals suspected of acting as protectors, organizers, or financial beneficiaries of these activities, as the ministry vows to take firm action against any law breaches or exploitation harming the nation’s image.















