8 July 2023
Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki today rejected a news report claiming his agency’s investigators found no corruption involving Immigration officers at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA).
He told the Astro Awani news portal that it was unreasonable to expect the investigation, which was sparked by a controversy involving a minister, would be concluded within days.
“I would like to say that investigations are still ongoing.
“I do not want any party to speculate because there are those who assume there is no element of corruption when the investigation has still yet to be completed,” he was quoted as saying.
He also criticised the news outlet that published the report based on unnamed sources, telling it to be more careful with such claims.
Azam said there were many steps and aspects to an investigation, adding that there were also additional procedures as the case involved another law enforcement agency.
He added that representatives of the company implicated in the controversy have been called in for questioning, as have additional witnesses.
On Wednesday, he said that the agent who was suspected of soliciting bribes to resolve the case of a Chinese national who failed to meet immigration rules to enter Malaysia had worked in a company operating in the airport that was allowed to handle those who had been given an NTL notice.
He said that Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB) will also be questioned on its regulation of such companies as the firm in question was appointed by MAHB.
On June 30, Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing claimed a “culture of corruption” was rife among Immigration staff at KLIA Terminal 1 after he was accused of abusing his power to enter the arrival hall to help a visitor from China who was said to have been barred entry.
Tiong also claimed that Immigration officers demanded RM3,000 to release detained travellers, with an additional RM3,000 to be paid if the traveller wanted to return to his home country immediately.
Source: www.malaymail.com
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