KUALA LUMPUR, March 31 ― Sarawak’s Land Development Minister Tan Sri Dr James Masing was stopped by authorities at a Sabah airport yesterday on suspicion of using a false pass, local paper The Borneo Post reported today.
According to the English-language daily, immigration officers at the Kota Kinabalu International Airport detained him when he landed at 6pm, believing him to be an imposter posing as a minister.
When Masing showed counter officers his “Pengenalan Istimewa” or the special pass used by ministers and elected representatives, the Sarawak politician found it difficult to get the officers to believe that he was an actual minister and had to resort to using his identity card as proof.
The politician suggested that the misunderstanding arose because he was casually dressed in “jeans” and a t-shirt, describing the episode as “embarrassing”.
“I was detained probably because I was wearing jeans, I did not realise that YBs and ministers must use smart attire in Sabah.
“It was embarrassing, I have to prove that I am James Masing as shown in the identity card,” Masing was quoted saying in a text message to The Borneo Post.
Masing reportedly said that this event would serve as a reminder to other politicians to be dressed up properly when showing the special passes.
Malaysia’s immigration department was recently placed under international scrutiny after two Iranian nationals managed to board the missing Malaysia Airlines (MAS) flight MH370 using stolen passports.
Airport operator Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) have tightened security checks especially for international flights following the Beijing-bound MH370’s disappearance, local daily The Star reported today.
MAS has also reportedly implemented new security measures during flights since the MH370 disappeared on March 8.
According to The Star, Malaysia Airlines (MAS) issued a new circular that make it compulsory for a flight attendant to be in the cockpit when either the pilot or co-pilot steps out for a break; Another flight attendant is to stand guard outside the door to prevent passengers from gaining access to the cockpit.
