THE Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) expects to complete investigations within three weeks into 14 officers from the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS), suspected of involvement in the ‘counter setting’ syndicate allowing foreign nationals illegal entry into the country.
MACC Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki confirmed that the case has entered its final stages and the completed investigation papers will soon be submitted to the Deputy Public Prosecutor for further action.
“As of now, 15 officers have been questioned, and nearly all face strong cases for prosecution,” he said during an interview on Malaysia Hari Ini (MHI) at Balai Berita on Tuesday.
He added, “I do not want this process to be prolonged. The Prime Minister has repeatedly stressed the importance of law enforcement integrity, and we are moving swiftly.”
The alleged syndicate involved AKPS officers stationed at KLIA Terminals 1 and 2, accused of accepting bribes to facilitate the unauthorised entry of foreign nationals. Eighteen officers were remanded by MACC during ‘Ops Rentas’, launched on 9 September.
Azam emphasised that this case is not merely about corruption arrests but also concerns national image and border security.
“This is about the dignity of the country. Enforcement personnel are the first face of Malaysia at our international gateways. Misconduct at this level severely damages our global reputation,” he said.
To date, 30 individuals have been detained under the operation, including 18 enforcement officers, five company owners, and three civilians. The commission has also seized various high-value assets including luxury cars, motorcycles, gold items, designer handbags, watches and telecommunications devices.
Additionally, MACC has confiscated over RM200,000 in cash and frozen 57 bank accounts – 48 belonging to individuals and nine to companies – with a combined value exceeding RM2.7 million.
Azam said there had been no further asset seizures at this stage, as the current focus remained on building strong cases for court proceedings.
The 'counter setting' practice has raised alarms over Malaysia’s border integrity, with Azam reiterating that restoring public and international trust is paramount. - October 1, 2025
