MALAYSIA- Today, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim chastised the Immigration Department for problems with traffic at the nation’s borders, especially in airports. The prime minister said tourists would not accept excuses for delays and hoped the issue could be resolved, comparing the criticism to “parental love” to ease congestion difficulties at counters processing admission of tourists.
“Malaysia has become a popular destination due to a sudden surge in tourists, with an increase of up to 80% in the early months of this year, which undoubtedly puts pressure on agencies.” Please do not take offence; sometimes, we treat our children with criticism that is akin to affection.
“I hope the Immigration Department will forgive (me) in the spirit of this festive season, maaf zahir dan batin,” he remarked. This was said by Anwar during today’s MCBA terms of reference handover ceremony and the Aidilfitri celebration hosted by the Home Ministry (KDN).
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail stated during his remarks at the same event that the Home Ministry recognized the need for development. He claimed that to find answers, KDN talks about the situation practically every day.
“I do not doubt that we will be announcing some ‘game changers’ soon, ones that will ease arrivals and spare travellers from having to sit through traffic.
Although we are aware of our limitations, we are so determined to explore every possibility that we cannot discover a solution. “Keep sending out reminders. We regard this as a challenge, Datuk Seri (Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim), not as something to be offended about.
