Rantau Panjang: The Malaysian government has launched the Malaysia Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) to address and curb crimes like smuggling of firearms, drugs, and contraband. The agency aims to streamline border enforcement by unifying various functions under a single command, said Chief Secretary to the Government, Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the AKPS will integrate multiple border control duties that currently involve several agencies such as customs, immigration, and quarantine. This consolidation is designed to eliminate inefficiencies, overlapping responsibilities, and communication barriers. The agency is expected to create a coordinated approach for enhanced border security.
Shamsul Azri highlighted the challenges faced by travelers who encounter multiple inspections managed by different agencies, leading to confusion and delays. The AKPS aims to simplify this process by providing a single inspection layer, thereby reducing waiting times and improving public satisfaction with government services.
AKPS Director-General Datuk Seri Hazani Ghazali stated that the agency will act as the government's frontline at entry points across land, sea, and air, following the gazetting of the AKPS Act 2024. The agency is committed to providing integrated control and inspection services, reflecting the government's commitment to maintaining high standards of border control.
The Rantau Panjang ICQS Complex has been selected as the pilot location for the AKPS operations to identify strengths and address weaknesses before a planned expansion to 21 locations in February. This pilot operation is a strategic initiative to address critical border issues more effectively.
Kelantan police chief Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mamat expressed the Royal Malaysia Police's (PDRM) commitment to support efforts in combating cross-border illegal activities. He urged residents in border areas to use authorized routes and emphasized the importance of community cooperation to ensure border security.