KUALA LUMPUR: Polygraph tests should be made mandatory in the recruitment process of enforcement officers as a preventive measure against corruption, says criminologist Datuk Seri Dr Akhbar Satar.
Speaking to the New Straits Times, Akhbar said the measure could help identify individuals with corrupt tendencies early on.
He added that polygraph testing should also be incorporated as part of the Immigration Department's reforms to address weaknesses among its officers as it would deter those engaging in corrupt activities.
Akhbar cited Singapore as a prime example, where polygraph tests are widely used by authorities for personnel screening and investigations, as well as to determine whether charges should be filed against corrupt officers.
"We should take a train down south to learn how to clean up our nation (from corruption). We do not have to go far or waste time and money. Put aside our ego and learn from Singapore. They are the leading country in the world that uses polygraph tests to combat corruption.
"As our neighbour, we might want to look at the strategies implemented by the republic to curb graft," he said.
Akhbar added that studies conducted by the American Polygraph Association (APA) have also demonstrated the reliability and accuracy of polygraph tests.
"By following strict APA procedures with appropriate questioning and validated techniques, such as using a special room and chair, the tests can achieve up to 98 per cent accuracy.
"This is further supported by empirically based manual scoring, computerised software verification and examination by forensic polygraph examiners."
Previously, the Home Ministry announced that the Immigration Department would implement six reform measures to address weaknesses and combat "counter-setting" syndicates.
Its Deputy Minister Datuk Seri Shamsul Anuar Nasarah said these reforms include rotating heads, supervisors and officers who have served for more than three years.
Other reforms include reviewing and improving all standard operating procedures related to security management at entry points, the control of security stamps and visitor inspection management.
At the same time, Akhbar added that strong political will and leadership were essential to reforming the current system, particularly within the enforcement agencies.
He also said it was important to understand proper procedures and to learn from other countries to deliver the best service possible.
"We need to understand the correct procedures (in terms of enforcement) and compare them with those of other countries.
"If we go to the United States, we can wait in line for three hours (at the Immigration counter) without complaint because of security procedures. But here, if the queue is too long, a politician will call to get ahead.
"It has become influenced by politics, and that is bad. They want to get through quickly, so they bypass the process.
"This is why we need strong political will and leadership, someone who can lead the department and knows its workings inside out."