KUALA LUMPUR: Myanmar nationals wishing to visit or work in Malaysia will be screened to find out if they have a criminal record, said Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
The Home Minister said only those without any criminal record would be permitted to enter the country following a spate of murders involving Myanmar nationals in Penang.
"I have discussed this matter with the Myanmar Labour Minister. The recent murders are a concern for both countries," he told a press conference after launching a seminar for Bukit Aman department directors and police chiefs here yesterday.
Dr Ahmad Zahid, who also launched the rebranding of Bukit Aman Logistics Department as the Strategic Resources and Technology Department, said the ministry was working with the Myanmar Embassy in Malaysia to monitor Myanmar nationals in the country.
"We are also checking those with UNHCR (United Nations High Commisssioner for Refugees) cards to ensure that they are not involved in any criminal activity," he said.
Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar, who attended the event, said 12 Myanmar nationals were still being detained in connection with the murders in Penang.
"We are looking for a few more (suspects). Initial investigations revealed the murders were due to revenge, private and family problems and debts. We urge the public to refrain from speculating that the murders were related to communal or religious issues," he said.
On another matter, Dr Ahmad Zahid said the ministry was strenghtening its standard operating procedure for border checkpoints.
"The Immigration department will be acquiring new scanners at entry points along with high definition CCTV and a facial imaging machine," he said.
On the construction of a border wall, Dr Ahmad Zahid said the ministry was studying proposals from five companies.
"We must ensure the proposals are suitable for the surface and environment in northern peninsular Malaysia or Sabah and Sarawak.
"We also need to look at the cost as we seek the approval of the Finance Ministry," he said.
The Home Ministry believes the private sector should help finance the construction of the wall because of its high cost.
Dr Ahmad Zahid also said the amended Prevention of Crime Act, which was passed in Parliament in October last year, was proving to be effective with 306 people arrested since its enforcement.
"Detention under the Act is followed by a review by a five-member panel led by a judge. Detainees have a right to contest their detention, and so far some 10% of them have been freed," he said.
http://www.information.myanmaronlinecentre.com/stringent-checks-on-myanmars/
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