Immigration Department prepares to overcome congestion at checkpoints

The Immigration Department, in cooperation with other enforcement agencies has taken early action to improve the preparedness of immigration officers to overcome congestion during peak hours at all checkpoints in the country.

Director-general Datuk Seri Mustafar Ali said the department had held discussions a month ago with Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad and other airlines on measures to overcome congestion at main entry points such as the Kuala Lumpur International Airport.

He said the discussions involved spacing out flight arrivals and departures so that local and foreign tourists could enjoy greater comfort while at the airports.

"The matter is difficult as Malaysia is a tourist destination while many foreign workers wanted to return home to celebrate Hari Raya. (As such) Congestion at airports is inevitable.

"Therefore, the department made early preparations and has smart partnership with other government agencies to ensure smooth operation at entry and exit points of the country.

"We do not want locals holidaying abroad to be stranded overseas for not paying PTPTN or the Inland Revenue Board," he added.

BERNAMA