JIM and CiJA forge partnership to enhance public understanding of immigration policies and enforcement through accurate, balanced reporting
PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Immigration Department has welcomed the establishment of the Crime Journalists Association (CiJA), describing it as an important professional platform that strengthens strategic collaboration between crime desk reporters and national enforcement agencies.
“The formation of CiJA provides added value to the ecosystem of crime and immigration reporting. With a dedicated organisation bringing together crime journalists in a professional setting, the public will gain access to clearer and more accurate insights on immigration-related matters, which are often complex and sensitive,” Immigration Department Director General Datuk Zakaria Sha’ban said in a statement today.
At the same time,he said that the new platform enables more structured and in-depth engagement between the Immigration and the media to ensure information shared with the public remains clear, balanced and does not interfere with ongoing operations.
The department added that immigration reform is not only about improving systems and technology but also about shaping public understanding of Immigration’s work on the ground.
“Transparency, accurate explanations and responsible communication are crucial to sustaining public trust. In this context, JIM views CiJA as a strategic partner that can help strengthen public understanding of immigration policies and enforcement actions,” he added.
Zakaria also said that as part of its commitment to better cooperation, Immigration is open to organising regular briefings on immigration laws and policies, enforcement developments and current trends — including the department’s ongoing digitalisation efforts.
These initiatives, it added, are aimed at helping journalists produce factual, accurate and well-informed reporting. Immigration also extended its congratulations to CiJA’s newly formed leadership and expressed appreciation for the media’s continued role in educating the public on immigration safety and compliance.
The department reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with media partners to ensure immigration narratives delivered to the public are accurate, easy to understand and aligned with the aspirations of Malaysia Madani.
