Immigration Dept: Report special pass irregularities directly to us or MACC

PUTRAJAYA, Nov 1 — The Immigration Department (JIM) has called on the public to report any irregularities they suspect in the issuance of Special Passes, particularly those involving JIM officers in Kuala Lumpur. Director-General Datuk Zakaria Shaaban emphasized that submitting such information or evidence to either JIM or the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) is vital for a thorough investigation.

He stressed that disclosing such information publicly could potentially disrupt the investigation by causing the suspects to alter their actions or destroy evidence.

Zakaria highlighted that JIM is open to receiving reports of alleged misconduct by its officers and will ensure that all such reports are thoroughly reviewed and referred for appropriate action under existing laws and regulations. The department views these allegations very seriously and is resolute in its commitment to not tolerate any misconduct, abuse of power, or breaches of integrity by its officers, irrespective of their rank or position.

To bolster integrity and accountability, Zakaria announced that 849 immigration officers had faced disciplinary action from 2023 through October of this year, with 73 officers being dismissed. Specifically, in the period from January to October of this year, 96 officers faced disciplinary action, including 18 dismissals. These numbers underscore JIM's firm stance on addressing any disciplinary offences committed by its officers.

Zakaria reiterated JIM's commitment to enhancing integrity, ensuring procedural compliance, and strengthening internal controls to guarantee that all services are delivered transparently and in accordance with the law.