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A Landmark Moment-Malaysia Unveils E-Passport Program for Expatriates
Malaysian expatriates can finally breathe a sigh of relief as the long-awaited e-passport program has been officially launched. In a momentous event inaugurated by Abdullah Al-Masud Chowdhury, the secretary of the security services department of the Ministry of Home Affairs, the e-passport program marks a significant step forward in enhancing passport and immigration services for Malaysians living abroad.
The inauguration ceremony, held at 10:30 a.m. local time on Thursday, commenced with the enrollment of newborn children into the e-passport system, symbolizing the beginning of a new era in passport technology. Following this, a comprehensive discussion meeting was conducted, featuring presentations by Miah Mohammad Kiam Uddin, Councilor of the Passport and Visa Wing, and presided over by Shamim Asan, the High Commissioner of Bangladesh to Malaysia.
Abdullah Al-Masud Chowdhury emphasized the indispensable role of e-passports, e-gates, and standard immigration services in establishing a smart and efficient Bangladesh. Brigadier General Muhammad Nurus Salam, director of the e-passport and automatic border control management project, highlighted the advanced technology embedded within e-passports, allowing seamless immigration clearance through e-gates without any inconvenience.
High Commissioner Md. Shamim Ahsan expressed his confidence that the launch of e-passports in Malaysia would contribute to the ongoing success of the digital Bangladesh initiative, affirming the commitment to providing exemplary services to expatriates. Deputy High Commissioner Mohammad Khorshed Alam Khastgir delivered a warm welcome speech, accompanied by remarks from Ghiyas Uddin Ahmad, Director of Expat Service, and actor SM Arman Parvez.
Despite the initial campaign suggesting a launch date of Friday, the application process commenced a day earlier on April 18, providing expatriates with immediate access to the e-passport services. A circular issued by the High Commission’s Passport and Visa Wing Councilor Mia Mohammad Kiam Uddin outlined the mandatory appointment system for submitting e-passport applications through the designated outsourcing company, Expat Services Kuala Lumpur Sdn Bhd (ESKL).
Expatriates can schedule appointments through the company’s website or by visiting the specified address in Kuala Lumpur. The government fee for e-passports varies based on visa category, with service charges applicable for ESKL’s assistance in the application process.
Since its inception on January 5, Expat Services has been dedicated to delivering comprehensive services to Bangladeshi expatriates in Malaysia, aiming to eliminate harassment and intermediaries in passport renewal and other related procedures. The company’s offerings have expanded to include visa services for foreign nationals and the issuance of travel permits for expatriates without passports, all aimed at simplifying bureaucratic processes and enhancing expatriate experiences.
During the launch ceremony, notable attendees included representatives from the Commodore Defense Wing of the High Commission, councilors, community leaders, and esteemed guests from various sectors. The presence of journalists underscored the significance of this milestone achievement in advancing passport and immigration services for Malaysian expatriates.
As the e-passport program takes flight, it promises not only convenience and efficiency but also represents a testament to the commitment of both Malaysia and Bangladesh in prioritizing the welfare of their expatriate communities. With streamlined processes and cutting-edge technology, the future looks brighter for Malaysian expatriates traversing international borders.
