The Kenyan High Commission in Kuala Lumpur has issued a warning to Kenyan citizens about potential immigration risks for those travelling to Malaysia.
In a statement dated January 21, 2025, the High Commission highlighted a growing trend of job scams targeting Kenyans.
“The attention of the High Commission has been drawn to the recent surge in the number of Kenyans being lured to travel to Malaysia in the pretext of securing job opportunities which turn out to be non-existent,” the diplomatic mission stated in a post shared by the State Department of Foreign Affairs on their X account.
The advisory detailed how the recruitment agencies are exploiting the visa-free entry policy in Malaysia, leaving Kenyans stranded with significant financial burdens.
“These recruitment agencies/individuals are taking advantage of the 30-day visa-free entry but end up leaving the unsuspecting Kenyans stranded and abandoned, ladened with costs of return air tickets and overstay fines,” the statement warned.
Legal charges
The High Commission further warned Kenyans found guilty of overstaying in the country past 30 days of severe legal consequences.
“Any overstay case is an offence under Immigration Act 1959/63 (Act 155), and if arrested, one is liable for up to six months imprisonment or a fine as may be determined by the court,” the statement read.
The diplomatic mission advised Kenyans to exercise extreme caution.
“Please be advised on the need for due diligence before embarking on any travel arrangements. The High Commission remains available to assist Kenyans in conducting necessary due diligence on any job opportunities in Malaysia or country(s) of accreditation,” it added.
Malaysia’s Visa-free policy
According to the commission, the 30-day visa-free entry policy is based on a bilateral arrangement of reciprocity.
This requires all Kenyans wishing to stay more than 30 days to obtain a valid stay visa under Malaysian immigration laws.
