South Sudan, Malaysia Sign Agreement To Train Immigration Officers

By Debora Akur Chol, South Sudan

South Sudan and Malaysia have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing border management and security through the training of South Sudanese immigration officers.

Major General Elia Costa, Director General of the Civil Registry, Nationality, Passport, and Immigration, announced the agreement upon his return from Malaysia.

“We went to Malaysia to gain knowledge from our counterparts. The visit was successful. We met with immigration authorities there,” Costa told the press.

The MoU, signed with the Director of Malaysia’s Immigration Department, focuses on promoting knowledge exchange and strengthening cooperation between the two countries in the area of immigration practices.

“They assured us of their commitment to cooperate with South Sudan on border control and management,” he added.

The deal comes amid ongoing public frustration over delays in acquiring or renewing passports and national identity cards. These delays are largely attributed to the government’s failure to settle outstanding payments with a German company contracted to print the documents.

“During our visit, we toured the facility where passports and ID cards are printed and issued. We learned about the entire process involved in their production,” said Costa.

Numerous complaints have emerged from across the country, including at Juba International Airport, embassies, and various border points. Many travellers such as students, patients seeking treatment abroad, and businesspeople have been forced to cancel or postpone trips due to delays at the immigration office.

Officials hope that the newly signed MoU will help address some of these challenges by improving the efficiency and timeliness of passport and ID booklet production.