[UPDATED] KLIA Immigration fracas: MACC probe already on, says Saifuddin

KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has already initiated investigations into alleged impropriety among Immigration Department personnel at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA). 

Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail in a press conference today assured that the cabinet is satisfied that most Immigration Department officers have been performing their duties with integrity.

However, he said the cabinet is also aware of the possibility that a small number of personnel may be involved in corrupt activities. 

This comes after Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing confirmed that he was involved in a commotion at the international arrival hall at KLIA recently, claiming that a Chinese tourist was a victim of corruption after being denied entry into the country despite having all necessary documentation.

Moving forward, Saifuddin explained that the government will implement measures to ensure smooth operations at airports for incoming travellers. 

Among those include a help desk with Immigration Department officers who are able to speak multiple languages such as Mandarin, English, Arabic, and Tamil. 

He also explained to the public that when travellers enter the country, it is common for the Immigration Department to ask questions such as whether they have a return ticket, their place of residence in Malaysia and if they have enough money for their travel here. 

When travellers fail to provide a satisfactory answer, Saifuddin said the Immigration Department will have the discretion to issue a “Not To Land” (NTL) directive to prevent entry. 

The home minister went on to clarify that when an NTL order is issued, there is a company chosen by airline operating companies called “Mono Circle” that organises their repatriation back. 

“When someone gets the NTL order, they must prepare money for their ticket back. 

“We don’t disagree that there may be bad practices amongst Immigration Department officers, but it is also possible that in such situations there’s an assumption that authorities are asking for money,” Saifuddin said. 

Meanwhile, he also added that previously only Immigration Department officers at the “KP29” level were allowed to issue NTLs, but now officers at the “G41” level and above will issue such orders. 

On another matter, Saifuddin mentioned that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has alerted that there is a small number of personnel at the National Registration Department (NRD) who are trying to make a quick buck from those making citizenship applications. 

“Ever since I sped up the process for citizenship applications, some of those who are successful have received calls from certain individuals from the NRD asking for money. 

“We know who that is…I have contacted MACC chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki to give him a name and continue investigations. 

“When you are dealing with whoever from the Home Ministry or the NRD, there is no money required to be paid with regards to the approval for citizenship. 

“The decision is made by a committee that decides based on rules and laws. 

“So, if anyone calls and asks for money, just ignore.” – The Vibes, July 5, 2023