KUALA LUMPUR: The Centre to Combat Corruption and Cronyism (C4) has lauded the Immigration Department's recent anti-corruption measures, including the introduction of body cameras, Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) surveillance and mandatory asset declarations.
C4 chief executive officer Pushpan Murugiah described such measures as a "positive step" in addressing corruption within its ranks.
However, he said, technological solutions like bodycams and CCTV cameras must be accompanied by stringent policies to ensure their effectiveness and resistance to tampering.
"Introducing compulsory asset declarations is a pleasant surprise, as it acknowledges that corruption is an institutional issue.
"However, long-term solutions, such as establishing an Ombudsman Office, are necessary," he told the New Straits Times.
He said the Ombudsman Office could build on the Enforcement Agency Integrity Commission's (EAIC) work by receiving public complaints and investigating maladministration within the public service.
"Such oversight mechanisms are crucial to prevent corruption from becoming entrenched."
On Jan 3, Immigration Department director-general Datuk Zakaria Shaaban said they planned to keep a close watch on its officers to curb corruption.
Leveraging on the measures mentioned, he said it would help stamp out corruption in the department.
He assumed office on Sept 17 last year, following a counter-setting scandal in which 50 Immigration enforcement officers were arrested for allegedly colluding with a syndicate to smuggle foreign nationals through airports.
Meanwhile, Pushpan cautioned that implementing these measures might face resistance from immigration officers, who might perceive them as intrusive.
To address this, the group recommended transparent communication through town hall meetings to ensure officers understand the necessity of these changes and the benefits they offer.
"Officers must see these measures as protecting them from unwarranted accusations of corruption, which is essential for maintaining morale and trust within the organisation."
To gauge the effectiveness of these initiatives, C4 called for greater transparency within the department.
He said that piecemeal reforms would not suffice, urging the government to adopt a widespread anti-corruption agenda that leaves "no stone unturned."
Pushpan suggested publishing clear information about internal oversight mechanisms, making asset declaration databases publicly accessible, and disclosing the number of investigations and dismissals linked to corruption.
"Without public scrutiny, these measures risk being reduced to mere formalities. Transparency is the only way to ensure that corrupt activities are identified and addressed promptly.
"The public is more than capable of discerning genuine reform from superficial efforts. Only a systemic approach can restore faith in public institutions," he said.