KUALA LUMPUR - Investigations into illegal immigration routes along Kelantan’s coastline have found that undocumented migrants are being taught Bahasa Melayu in their home countries before entering Malaysia.

The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) said the practice is believed to help migrants blend in and move around with less suspicion, especially in rural and remote areas.

MMEA Kelantan Director, Erwan Shah Soahdi said the finding shows smuggling networks are becoming more organised and adapting to tighter enforcement and new technology.

He said syndicates are investing in language training so migrants can limit interaction with local communities after arrival.

After landing, the migrants usually avoid populated areas and move through small rivers, forest edges and isolated routes before being picked up inland, he said.

Erwan also said some groups are using advanced tools such as drones to monitor landing areas and track enforcement activity.

He said their methods include staggered boat movements, early surveillance and carefully timed landings.

Based on arrest and seizure records, Erwan said waters along the Kelantan-Terengganu border have become key entry points for illegal crossings.

Records show the boats usually operate 120 to 130 nautical miles offshore and stay close to the border to allow quick escape routes.