PUTRAJAYA, July 6 – The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has commenced a comprehensive investigation into allegations of corruption at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), the country’s main gateway. Home Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail confirmed the initiation of the investigation during a brief meeting with MACC Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki on Wednesday. While acknowledging the commitment and exemplary service exhibited by most members and officers of the Immigration Department.
Saifuddin Nasution did not deny the possibility of corruption involving certain officers, as alleged in the recent incident. “We are fully cooperating with the MACC to ensure a thorough investigation is conducted to determine the veracity of these allegations,” he stated during a special press conference held in Putrajaya. Simultaneously, Saifuddin Nasution revealed that the cabinet has directed a review of the role played by a company appointed to manage travelers who are subject to Entry Refusal Notices (NTL).
Since 2015, the appointed company has been responsible for overseeing the repatriation process of individuals issued NTLs. “For instance, in dealing with the arrangement of return plane tickets, there may be instances where it appears as if the immigration officers are soliciting money,” he explained. The minister has instructed the Minister of Transport to examine this aspect and determine whether such practices are commonplace or require further scrutiny. Additionally, Saifuddin Nasution disclosed that only 0.07 percent of NTLs were issued to Chinese travelers between January and June 2023, out of a total of 592,490 recorded entries.
He emphasized the relatively low number of NTLs issued to Chinese citizens compared to the total number of Chinese travelers permitted to enter the country. “NTLs are also imposed on travelers from other countries, and the percentage of NTLs imposed on non-Chinese citizens is higher. This indicates that restrictions are imposed for valid reasons,” he clarified. Recent reports of an incident at KLIA involving a minister purportedly entering the airport’s arrivals hall to “rescue” a Chinese tourist had gone viral.
Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, acknowledging his involvement in the incident, highlighted the prevalence of corruption within the country’s immigration authorities. Saifuddin Nasution affirmed the government’s commitment to addressing such issues and ensuring the integrity and transparency of the immigration system. The MACC’s investigation will shed further light on the alleged corruption at KLIA, contributing to efforts in eradicating such practices and upholding the highest standards of governance.
