Kuala lumpur: The government has decided to arm the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) with necessary weapons, with procurement set to commence before the end of the year, as confirmed by Home Minister, Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail. This move comes in response to a shooting incident in February involving the AKPS Bukit Kayu Hitam commander, Mohd Nasaruddin Mohd Nasir.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Saifuddin stated that discussions within the ministry led to the Cabinet's approval of this initiative. The specific type of armaments-ranging from taser guns to light weapons like pistols-has not yet been determined. The Home Ministry's secretary-general is currently evaluating these options in accordance with Cabinet directives, which Saifuddin has communicated for implementation.

Saifuddin emphasized the urgency of this matter due to the high-risk nature of AKPS's duties. Decisions regarding whether to initially equip the agency with taser guns, pistols, or both are under consideration. Saifuddin assured that further updates will be provided soon.

Saifuddin had previously indicated the government's readiness to meet the needs of AKPS, including providing armaments and safety equipment, to enhance the agency's operational effectiveness.

The February 25 incident involved a shooting at a Proton X70 driven by Mohd Nasaruddin near Masjid Muhajirin in Bukit Kayu Hitam, close to the Malaysia-Thailand border. Despite being targeted on his way to perform Subuh prayers, Mohd Nasaruddin emerged unscathed.