Ever-ready team: Elite Immigration enforcement personnel conducting a drill showcasing their operational capabilities. — RAJA FAISAL HISHAN/The Star
PUTRAJAYA: Enhanced digital service delivery from the Immigration Department for electronic visa applications is in the pipeline with the launch of MyVisa 2.0.
The upgraded system was launched yesterday in conjunction with the 103rd Immigration Day celebrations and is slated for rollout on Aug 1.
“It is an enhanced version of the original MyVisa system introduced on Dec 1, 2021. The new system has been developed as an integrated digital visa platform, offering faster, safer and more efficient application experiences, in line with the expectations of citizens and international visitors who prioritise convenience in public services.
“MyVisa 2.0 incorporates various advanced technologies such as Optical Character Recognition, real-time notifications, smart automation and a dedicated mobile app for applicants.
“It provides a fully digital visa application process, including passport scanning, document uploads, virtual interviews, real-time tracking, eVisa approval with QR codes and interactive support via live chat,” the department said in a statement yesterday.
It added that the new system will no longer require applicants to head to the Malaysian Representative Offices abroad.
The 103rd Immigration Day celebration ceremony was launched by Deputy Home Minister Datuk Seri Dr Shamsul Anuar Nasarah on behalf of Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution.
He left the event before its conclusion to attend another meeting.
Earlier, Saifuddin Nasution said the country is still behind despite embracing artificial intelligence (AI).
“Today, we embrace AI, but we are still three years behind.
“But if we don’t start now, we will be 30 years behind,” he said in his opening speech.
The minister urged the department to send officers for AI training at local universities.
“Send personnel to local public universities such as UKM and UiTM in batches.
“Give them the opportunity to attend one- to two-week courses to gain knowledge of AI and develop the skills needed to use AI tools, which are evolving rapidly day by day.”
Saifuddin Nasution also urged the Immigration Department to increase its commitment to combating graft within its ranks.
“With reforms anchored on efficient governance, strengthened integrity and impactful service delivery, I hope the department will uphold a zero-tolerance policy against corruption,” he said.
