Cheap rent and hidden location: Inside the Jalan Klang Lama squatter raid

KUALA LUMPUR - Despite being dilapidated, boasting cheap rentals and a hidden location are among the reasons why a squatter housing area at Jalan Klang Lama here has become a preferred settlement for illegal immigrants (PATI).

However, the settlement was successfully raided by the Kuala Lumpur Malaysian Immigration Department (JIM) during Op Sapu on Saturday.

The operation, which began at 1.30am, inspected 40 housing units. During the raid, some foreigners attempted to flee and hide, allegedly to evade detention by immigration officers.

It is understood that most residents pay rent starting from RM200 for a room and up to RM500 for a house. The area is predominantly occupied by Indonesian nationals, with a small number of Myanmar nationals and locals. The neighborhood is also equipped with a surau (prayer hall) and grocery stores, alongside basic amenities like water and electricity.

Furthermore, it is understood that online gambling activities were also taking place in the area.

The settlement has become an attraction for foreigners, including illegal immigrants, as well as locals working nearby to rent in the area.

Kuala Lumpur JIM reported that a total of 78 individuals, including 30 women suspected of being illegal immigrants, were detained following the inspection of 200 people.

"The arrests involved 71 Indonesian nationals, six Myanmar nationals, and one Indian national," JIM stated.

Meanwhile, a local resident claimed she has been renting a home in the area for the past 30 years at a monthly rent of RM500.

"There are Indonesians, Myanmar nationals, and our own people (locals) living here," said the woman, who is in her 50s.