Johor bahru: The National Anti-Drugs Agency (AADK) will station officers from its Anti-Drugs Border Unit (UAS) at the two entry points of the Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link ahead of the service's operation on December 31. AADK director-general Datuk Ruslin Jusoh announced that these locations include the Bukit Chagar Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and Security (ICQS) Complex in Johor and the Woodlands North Customs, Immigration and Quarantine (CIQ) Complex in Singapore.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the decision was made following a bilateral meeting between AADK and Singapore's Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) held in the capital. The meeting underscored the necessity for robust coordination and readiness among enforcement agencies to ensure a drug-free environment as the RTS Link service is expected to significantly increase cross-border traffic.

Ruslin emphasized that the meeting offered a crucial platform for detailing operational arrangements and establishing rapid communication channels at the main entry points. Co-chaired with CNB deputy director (Operations) Aaron Tang, the meeting focused on bolstering strategic and operational cooperation to address border security challenges ahead of the RTS Link's operation.

The agencies also assessed developments in emerging trends of cross-border drug threats, such as the use of technology, online platforms, and new psychoactive substances (NPS). They discussed the latest drug smuggling modus operandi to enhance their preventive measures.

Ruslin highlighted the importance of not only conducting official discussions but also implementing concrete follow-up actions by the operational teams of both countries. He reiterated AADK's commitment to fostering strong relations with regional agencies in joint enforcement efforts to protect the community and national security from drug abuse and trafficking threats.