According to the ministry, 359 of the 488 have been rescued.

It said in a statement that 331 had been brought back to Malaysia and 28 more were still in detention and assisting with investigations.

Syndicate victims who have been rescued so far include 227 in Cambodia, 61 in Laos, 38 in Thailand and 33 in Myanmar.

“The ministry, through the Malaysian embassies in the countries concerned and in close cooperation with the Malaysian police, will continue to redouble efforts to track down another 129 victims still unaccounted for, involving Cambodia (one case), Thailand (eight cases), Laos (29 cases) and Myanmar (91 cases).

“The ministry also hopes for the public’s cooperation to always be aware and informed about fraudulent criminal syndicates offering jobs abroad.”

The ministry called on victims and family members of suspected victims to report the matter immediately. They can contact the ministry via email at [email protected].

Meanwhile, six Malaysians who were victims of a job scam syndicate at the Thailand-Myanmar border were brought home today.

They have been handed over to the police to assist with investigations.

The ministry expressed its appreciation to the police for their quick and proactive action in locating and rescuing the victims.

“At the same time, the ministry expresses its utmost appreciation to the Thai authorities for their cooperation and priority in helping the Malaysian government rescue the victims of this syndicate.

“The ministry also expresses appreciation to Teruntum assemblyman Sim Chon Siang who extended assistance in bringing the victims home,” said the statement.