KUALA LUMPUR: A planned family reunion turned into heartbreak when an Indian national’s wife and two children were denied entry into Malaysia upon arrival early today (Apr 24), allegedly over confusion surrounding accommodation requirements.
The worker, Chandran Paramasivam, who has been employed in Malaysia for about 15 years, had arranged for his family to visit him for a month — a long-awaited reunion made possible after years of saving.
However, the visit ended abruptly at the airport.
According to IBR Asia Group chief executive officer Datuk Beatrice Nirmala, a friend of Chandran, the family was held at the immigration area for several hours before being instructed to return to India.
It is understood that the issue stemmed from the accommodation address stated in their documents, which reflected a residential address instead of a hotel booking.
Beatrice said Chandran tried to resolve the matter immediately by securing a hotel booking after being informed of the requirement, but the family was still denied entry.
“Chandran had submitted all the necessary documents prior to the trip, including a formal request letter, flight details and the Malaysian Digital Arrival Card.
“Despite securing a hotel booking afterwards, they were still told to return. He has spent all his savings to bring them here for just a one-month visit.
“He is a very hardworking individual. After years of sacrifice, he finally managed to bring his family here. It’s something he has long been looking forward to,” she said.
Chandran said his family was held inside the immigration area for several hours and that he was not allowed to meet them.
“We have been waiting, but until now they have not given a reason why my family is being detained.
“At least they should have the decency to explain,” he said.
He added that he had been at the airport since about 5am in hopes of resolving the situation but was unable to reach the contact numbers provided by immigration officers.
Beatrice expressed hope that the matter could still be reviewed.
“At the very least, there should be a clear explanation as to why they were denied entry.
“I sincerely hope they will be allowed to stay, as Chandran has worked hard for this one-month visit,” she said.
