TAWAU: The recent case of a young man from Keningau, who fell prey to a job scam syndicate and was rescued in Cambodia, highlights a critical issue that should alert everyone.
Mohd Zaki Harry Susanto, Advisor of the Sabah Anti-Drug and Crime Prevention Organisation (PPDJS), noted that enticing high-paying job offers circulating on social media are ensnaring many youths in Sabah.
He said these individuals are not only victims of fraud but are also being compelled to engage in scamming activities.
He urged the public to exercise caution, explaining that the deceptive syndicate targets not only young people from rural areas but also those in major cities like Tawau, Kota Kinabalu, and Sandakan.
“The syndicate promotes fake job listings with appealing salaries in countries such as Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar. Many victims find themselves trapped as forced labourers in tightly controlled ‘scam centres’ or online fraud operations.
“Initially, these victims are coerced into working as ‘scammers.’ However, upon witnessing the significant financial gains, some choose to continue in this line of work as a long-term career.
“Indeed, according to credible sources, nearly 90 per cent of the rescued victims ultimately decline to return to Malaysia because they have become accustomed to a lavish lifestyle afforded by the scam,” he stated.
Zaki emphasised that numerous young individuals are willing to compromise their dignity in exchange for money.
They often begin as victims but ultimately become participants in the syndicate’s operations.
“Currently, 73% of those caught in this scheme have been coerced into becoming ‘scammers’, while the remainder have been forced into labour in casinos, customer service centres, and restaurants.
“The total financial losses suffered by these deceived victims exceed RM25 million, while the syndicate profits amount to hundreds of millions of ringgit from these illicit activities,” Zaki noted.
To date, at least four significant arrests have occurred in Sabah, targeting local agents involved in trafficking teenagers for seemingly easy yet profitable jobs.
These individuals are under investigation according to the Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Act 2007 (ATIPSOM) and may face imprisonment and fines.
“We urge the public, particularly the youth in Sabah, to verify the legitimacy of companies and job offers through official sources like the Ministry of Human Resources. Be cautious of overseas job offers that seem too good to be true, especially those promising high salaries without interviews.”
Avoid engaging with social media or unknown intermediaries, and report any suspicious overseas job offers to the police immediately.
“Above all, do not jeopardise your future for an uncertain high salary. Many who leave never return,” he cautioned.
Zaki also mentioned that authorities have indicated this syndicate shows no intention of halting its operations and continues to actively pursue young people, particularly those in urgent need of employment.
“If you or someone you know is approached with dubious overseas job offers, please reach out to the ATIPSOM hotline at 03-8000 8000 or report to the nearest police station,” he added.
