2 July 2023
The prime minister also says a thorough investigation will be conducted into the alleged mistreatment of a Chinese national by immigration officers at the airport recently.
Immigration and customs services must be improved at KLIA to cater to travellers entering and leaving the country, says Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.
He said he conducted a “surprise” visit to the airport today to inspect its immigration and customs services.
“I took this opportunity to see for myself the issues related to (immigration and customs officers) handling foreign and local travellers.
“I feel there is room for improvement in strengthening the operations,” he said in a Facebook post.
Anwar also said a thorough investigation will be conducted into the alleged mistreatment of a Chinese national by immigration officers recently.
“The Cabinet will hold preliminary discussions on this matter on Wednesday,” he said, adding that appropriate action will be taken against those found to have committed any wrongdoings.
It had been reported that a minister allegedly caused a commotion by entering the international arrival hall to help a Chinese national who was denied entry into the country.
The minister then allegedly scolded KLIA auxiliary police and immigration officers while trying to help the Chinese national.
Tourism, arts and culture minister Tiong King Sing subsequently admitted to being at the centre of the commotion.
He said his visit to the airport had exposed a “culture of corruption and chronic abuse of power” involving immigration officials.
He claimed immigration officers were asking for as much as RM3,000 to release travellers they had detained, with an additional RM3,000 to be paid if the traveller wanted to return to his home country immediately.
Yesterday, the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission said it will be investigating Tiong’s allegation.
The immigration department has started its own investigation into the incident while police have also opened an investigation paper.
Source: www.freemalaysiatoday.com
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