PUTRAJAYA: As part of efforts to discourage corruption in the Immigration Department, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi today proposed an increase in the use of digital technology and online services in the Department’s daily operations.
Zahid, who is also Home Minister, said the move to change the system from a conventional to a high-technology one could deter corrupt practices among officers and stakeholders.
"It is not that we want to stop direct interaction between (Department personnel) and customers.
"But there is a need to switch the way we are doing things from conventional to online, as not only is this easy and convenient, it could deter graft and abuse of power.
"For instance, the Immigration Department has implemented an online system for employers to register their illegal foreign workers.
"Of course, there are teething issues at the early stage, and this is inevitable.
"(But) I see that (digital) technology can be an important tool to combat corruption," Zahid said at the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission's (MACC) Corruption-Free Pledge ceremony at the Immigration Department today.
The Department became the latest government agency to sign the pledge.
Led by its director-general, Datuk Seri Mustafar Ali, hundreds of Immigration officers and staff took their oath verbally before Zahid and MACC deputy chief commissioner (operations) Datuk Azam Baki.
The Department's representatives in other states and those posted abroad also took their oath, which was broadcast live via Skype.
Zahid urged the Department to not only take the pledge, but to translate their pledge into action.
"We have to constantly remind ourselves, myself included, to say ‘no’ to corruption. With strong commitment and high morals, this can be done.
"I know it is not easy due to many temptations, but this can be done if we make it a culture to reject corruption" he said.
Zahid also pledged to support the Immigration Department as long as its officers continue to show their commitment to fighting corruption.
"Being in the Department, the officers have to deal with various parties, including contractors, vendors and suppliers.
"I urge the officers not to be influenced by their sweet talk and big offers, as this may be a trap.
"So don't fall into their traps" he said.
Meanwhile, Zahid lauded the Department's continuous operations to arrests illegal immigrants and errant employers.
He said that despite ongoing operations, there will always be a negative perception of the government and its agencies.
"For instance, although the crime index has decreased, there is no increase in positive perceptions of the police. I hope this won't happen to the (Immigration) Department and the MACC,” he said.
He added that efforts to combat corruption should not be left to the MACC alone, as every party must play its part.
"We should also praise the MACC's high commitment to address corruption in the public sector, whether it involves small fish (lower management officers), or big fish (top management officers).
"We should also praise the MACC's actions to restore the people's faith in the Commission," Zahid added.