THE government will carry out in-depth investigations into allegations that immigration officers at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) had solicited bribes from foreigners, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said today.

He also said the matter will be discussed in the coming cabinet meeting this Wednesday.

Anwar said action will be taken against anyone found guilty of committing any wrongdoing in carrying out their duties.

“God willing, the security and the operations at KLIA will continuously be improved to ensure appropriate services are rendered,” he said in a statement on his Facebook today.

Anwar said there was room for improvement to enhance operations at the country’s entry points.

“I took the opportunity to greet and inquire with the officers and staff regarding their daily operations, both at the arrival and departure counters.

“This opportunity was also used to personally observe any emerging issues or problems during the daily handling of tourists and foreign nationals, as well as locals,” he said after conducting a surprise check on Immigration and Customs at KLIA today.

Speaking to reporters later, he said there was only a small group of problematic immigration officers at KLIA, but assured that they will be investigated.

“The situation is under control (at KLIA Customs and Immigration). There are a few problems that need fixing, and I gave assurance that an investigation will be done.

“The majority of Immigration officers are good. It’s just a few who are problematic, so we will conduct an investigation and take appropriate action.

“It’s just a small group that still resists change. God-willing, the investigation will be done, and the cabinet will take initial action at its meeting this Wednesday,” Anwar said.

He was at KLIA to receive Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah and Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah on their arrival from Saudi Arabia after performing their hajj.

Anwar’s spot check today followed claims made by Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Tiong King Sing that certain corrupt Immigration officials had prevented tourists with valid documents from entering Malaysia at the airport and demanded money in exchange for their release.

Following Tiong’s claims, the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission said it will investigate such allegations.

Tour associations meanwhile backed Tiong’s claims, saying that they too had received many complaints from inbound travellers. –  July 2, 2023.