M’sian Goes Missing in Taiwan, Family Discovers He’s Being Detained for Alleged Scam Links

A Malaysian man, identified as Mr Lai, is reportedly being held at the Taichung Detention Centre in Taiwan for alleged involvement in a scam operation, after leaving Malaysia to visit the country with a friend.

Michael Kong Feng Nian, the Special Assistant to Stampin Member of Parliament (MP) Chong Chieng Jen, shared that Mr Lai’s wife had reached out to him for assistance in locating her husband.

Malaysian man reportedly detained in Taiwan over alleged scam operation links

The situation began when Mr Lai left Malaysia for Taiwan, accompanied by a friend. According to Michael Kong:

“Mr Lai has been working at an oil plantation for the past couple of years. On 4 December 2025, he left Kuching and informed his wife that he would be travelling to Taiwan with a friend he knew as ‘Ah Huat.’

“Upon his arrival, Mr Lai contacted his wife and assured her that he was safe. He also told her that he would be returning to Malaysia by 28 December 2025.”

However, on 15 December 2025, Mr Lai contacted his wife once more to mention he was experiencing unspecified difficulties in Taiwan. Since that final phone call, all communication has ceased, and his wife has been unable to re-establish contact despite repeated attempts.

This image is for illustration purposes only.

Approximately nine days after losing contact, the family received troubling information through an acquaintance of Mr Lai’s brother, alleging that he was being held at the Taichung Detention Centre on suspicion of involvement in a scam operation.

Aside from this, Mr Lai’s family remains in the dark regarding his current situation.

Seeking assistance

Michael stated that he will seek the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ assistance to liaise with Taiwanese authorities to determine Mr Lai’s status and ensure his rights and welfare are safeguarded.

He also urged Malaysians to be more wary of the increasingly dangerous landscape of cross-border scams and exploitation.

Michael stated:

“In recent years, we have seen a worrying rise in cases where Malaysians are lured overseas with promises of work or travel, only to find themselves trapped or even forced into illegal activities.

“I urge the public to exercise extreme caution, especially when trips are arranged informally or when travel details are vague. Always verify plans beforehand and ensure family members are fully informed.”

 

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