To improve the Expatriates Service System (ESD), the immigration department (JIM) will temporarily suspend action against those expatriates who overstay in the country from Feb 10 to May 31.

The department's director-general, Datuk Mustafa Ibrahim said during the moratorium, a special pass would be issued gratis (free of charge) to the expatriates.

"The reason whyactionwill not be taken against them is because the immigration department is improving the ESD.

"During the moratorium period, a special pass will be issued 'gratis' to expatriates.

"If applying for the second time, it will depend on the discretion of the department," he said in a statement here on Monday.

To obtain the special pass, companies applying on behalf of the expatriates should bring an acknowledgement letter issued by JIM.

For more information, visit the website at JIM www.imi.gov.my; or www.esd.imi.gov.my.