Immigration: Report alleged Special Pass irregularities directly to authorities

The Immigration Department in Malaysia has called upon the public to report any suspected irregularities involving the issuance of Special Passes to the relevant authorities, specifically the Immigration department in Kuala Lumpur or the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC). Director-General Datuk Zakaria Shaaban emphasized the importance of providing information directly to the authorities to maintain the confidentiality of evidence and preserve its integrity.

He cautioned that disclosing such information publicly could potentially impede investigations by forcing those involved to alter their actions or destroy evidence.

Zakaria reiterated the department's zero-tolerance stance towards misconduct, abuse of power, or breaches of integrity by its officers, regardless of their rank or position. In response to these allegations, the department has taken disciplinary action against immigration officers. Between 2023 and October of the current year, 849 officers faced disciplinary measures, with 73 being dismissed.

Even within the first ten months of the current year, 96 officers faced disciplinary action, with 18 dismissed. These numbers highlight the department's commitment to holding officers accountable for any disciplinary offences.

Shaaban stated that the Immigration Department is actively working to strengthen integrity, procedural compliance, and internal controls to ensure that all services are delivered transparently and in accordance with the law. This commitment is aimed at safeguarding the integrity of the Special Pass issuance process and maintaining the trust of the public.