Malaysian Now Feared Trapped in Myanmar Scam Centre After Taking Overseas Job Offer

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 21, 2026: A 25-year-old Malaysian man is feared to have been trapped in a scam centre in Myanmar for the past six months after accepting what was promoted as a lucrative customer service job overseas.

The victim, identified only as Cheng, is believed to have travelled to Myanmar in April after being offered employment by a man he met at a car show in Penang. The pair reportedly bonded over their shared interest in cars before the job offer was made.

According to reports, Cheng previously worked in Singapore and accepted the position in the hope of securing stable employment and a better income.

However, upon arriving in Myanmar, he allegedly discovered that the employment conditions were vastly different from what had been promised. A contract reportedly required him to pay US$40,000 (RM168,000) if he wished to leave the job early.

Myanmar Scam Centre

Unable to afford the penalty, Cheng was allegedly forced to remain at the facility, where he endured long working hours and physical abuse.

He is believed to be confined at a scam compound near the Thai-Myanmar border. His personal phone was reportedly confiscated, limiting contact with his family.

Cheng managed to reach a friend and later his family via Instagram in July. His relatives subsequently lodged a police report in Johor Bahru, while authorities confirmed investigations are ongoing.

The family has also sought assistance from the Malaysian embassy as efforts continue to determine Cheng’s condition and exact whereabouts.

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