KUALA LUMPUR: All immigration officers are required to declare their income before going on vacation abroad.
In an effort to eradicate the abuse of power and corruption within the Immigration Department, all officers and staff must also provide proof of income to fund their expenses during their vacations.
Immigration Services Union of Peninsular Malaysia (KPISM) president Ajeet Singh Gurbax Singh said apart from declaring their income, immigration officers and staff need to obtain permission from their superiors before leaving the country.
"Continuous control and supervision measures must be carried out by the top management in the department.
"For example, any officer intending to travel abroad must apply for permission 30 days before the trip and provide proof of income to cover expenses incurred," he told Berita Harian.
He was commenting on the statement made by Chief Secretary to the Government, Tan Sri Zuki Mohd Ali, who called on all heads of government departments and units to exercise continuous control and discipline and to take appropriate action against any violations of regulations by staff under their supervision.
Any officer who fails to perform their duties accordingly, Zuki said, shall be deemed negligent and irresponsible in carrying out their tasks, and they may be subjected to disciplinary action.
The calls made by Zuki follow a warning issued by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim that department heads will not receive promotions if instances of misconduct and corrupt practices among their subordinates go unreported.
Ajeet Singh noted that several measures are in place to monitor and maintain the performance of staff in the Immigration Department.
These measures, he said, are clearly outlined in circulars and internal directives issued by the department to all its staff.
"KPISM echoes the suggestions made by the Prime Minister and Zuki on the need for department heads to fulfill their responsibility of monitoring their subordinates," he said.