KUALA LUMPUR — In a bold move to combat corruption, the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has proposed that Immigration officers stationed at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminals 1 and 2 be prohibited from using mobile phones while on duty. The recommendation comes after the recent crackdown on “counter setting” syndicates, which led to the arrest of 49 Immigration officers.
MACC chief commissioner, Tan Sri Azam Baki, explained that restricting phone access would help prevent external parties from contacting officers during their shifts, reducing the likelihood of corruption. “By blocking access to their mobile phones, it can prevent them from being contacted by outside parties. They also need other communication methods while on duty,” Azam said during a press conference.
The commission has identified 11 key weaknesses within the Immigration department that have facilitated corruption, including poor internal control and a lack of systematic work rotation. The practice of syndicates pre-emptively learning which officers are manning specific counters has also been flagged as a critical issue, as it provides agents with easy access to influence officers.
Tan Sri Azam further highlighted that insufficient supervision and easily manipulated entry systems for foreign nationals have created gaps in operating procedures. He also pointed to the long tenure of officers stationed at the same location, which has enabled the exchange of bribes between Immigration officers.
The MACC’s recommendations come at a time when stricter oversight is needed to close loopholes in the department’s procedures and limit opportunities for corruption at KLIA. Among the proposed changes are enhanced monitoring and an additional layer of checks for foreign documents and accommodations during their stay in Malaysia.
“The large amount offered as bribes is a big problem as well,” Azam added, stressing the importance of addressing both systemic issues and individual accountability to ensure a cleaner and more efficient immigration process.