Editor's Review

"Please be advised on the need for due diligence before embarking on any travel arrangements."

The High Commission of Kenya in Kuala Lumpur has issued a warning to Kenyans against falling victim to fraudulent job opportunities in Malaysia. 

In a statement on Thursday, January 23, the High Commission noted that unscrupulous recruitment agencies are taking advantage of the 30 days of visa-free entry but end up leaving unsuspecting job seekers stranded and abandoned.

"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 unscrupulous recruitment agencies/individuals are taking advantage of the 30 days visa-free entry but end up leaving the unsuspecting Kenyans stranded and abandoned, laden with costs of return air ticket and overstay fines," the statement read in part.

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File image of Diaspora Affairs Principal Secretary Roseline Njogu

In a bid to avoid such instances, the Commission has advised job seekers to conduct due diligence before embarking on any travel arrangements. 

"Please be advised on the need for due diligence before embarking on any travel arrangements. The High Commission remains available to assist in conducting the necessary due diligence on any job opportunities in Malaysia or country(s) of accreditation," the statement added.

Additionally, the Commission noted that the 30-day visa-free entry to Malaysia is based on a bilateral arrangement and does not allow for extended stays without proper documentation.

"The High Commission wishes to bring to the attention of all Kenyans in Malaysia or planning to travel to Malaysia that the 30-day visa-free entry is based on a bilateral arrangement on reciprocity. 

"As such, therefore, all Kenyans wishing to stay more than the 30 days are required under Malaysian Immigration Laws to regularize their stay by obtaining a valid stay visa to avoid being charged for overstay and other related offences," the statement further read.

The Commission further cautioned Kenyans against overstaying in Malaysia, highlighting the legal repercussions.

"This is to caution that 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 concluded.