Malaysia targets scam syndicates with stricter 187-arrest border screening

Malaysia steps up border checks on visa-free arrivals

Malaysia is tightening screening for visa-free and social-visit arrivals after police linked current entry rules to transnational scam syndicates. The push is focused on stricter checks and enforcement, not an immediate end to visa exemptions, police said.

Inspector-General of Police Razarudin Husain said the visa-exemption policy is “among the factors” drawing international scam groups, after raids on May 6 and 7 led to 187 arrests and the seizure of nearly RM58 million ($14.7 million) in assets. Police said they are working with the Immigration Department to monitor foreign entry more closely.

Who this is likely to affect

Tourists entering on visa-free or social-visit status should expect more questions at the border about itinerary, lodging and funds. Officers can refuse entry or shorten a stay if they think the visit is really for work, repeated back-to-back entries or other misuse.

Digital nomads face added scrutiny if they are entering as tourists while doing remote work. Malaysia has the DE Rantau pass for eligible remote workers, but social-visit status is still for tourism and short stays, not paid work.

What travelers should have ready

Travelers should carry clear proof of purpose, return plans and enough funds, especially if they plan to stay near the maximum allowed under their nationality’s visa-free rules. Chinese nationals remain limited to 30 days per trip and 90 days in any 180-day period under the Malaysia-China mutual exemption agreement.

Malaysia’s broader enforcement push also covers foreigners using social-visit passes to work. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has ordered stricter measures and authorities said they have screened more than 54,000 people since 2025. Read our full Malaysia guide for the complete picture and check our visa updates page for more travel notices.