Peninsular Malaysia Immigration Service Union president GS Ajeet Singh said officers must also request permission from their higher-ups to vacation abroad, Berita Harian reported.

“This continuous control measure is conducted by the top management of the department.

“Officers who wish to go for holidays overseas must request for permission 30 days prior and furnish proof of their income,” he said, adding that this was to prove they could afford the overseas trip on their income.

Recently, Chief Secretary Zuki Ali said all top officials, including heads of departments, must ensure that they monitor the conduct of their subordinates and take action on any breaches in regulations.

He said officers who failed to do so would be deemed irresponsible and negligent in carrying out their duties, and could face disciplinary action.

This was after Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim warned that there would be no promotions for department heads if misconduct by civil servants under their authority goes unreported.