Kuala Lumpur:The government of Malaysia has dismissed claims that the recent surge in large-scale drug smuggling cases is connected to the abolition of the mandatory death penalty. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim emphasized that no such link has been established.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Prime Minister Anwar stated that while the current legal framework remains robust, the main issue is the existing security gaps across Malaysia's borders, including land, sea, and air routes. He noted the need to strengthen the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) to address these smuggling activities.

During a session in the Dewan Rakyat, Anwar responded to a query from Hassan Abdul Karim (PH-Pasir Gudang) regarding whether the abolition of the mandatory death penalty under Section 39B of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 has emboldened traffickers. Anwar reassured that the government is focused on border security, with plans to significantly increase AKPS's budget from RM37 million this year to RM490 million by 2027.

Anwar also mentioned that staffing for AKPS is being managed transparently, with the Public Service Department (PSD) offering positions to officers from various departments, including customs and immigration, without coercion. He responded to a suggestion by Datuk Seri Dr Shahidan Kasim (PN-Arau) to second officers to AKPS to avoid dual enforcement entities at entry points, explaining that the employment scheme remains under the existing government framework.

Additionally, the Prime Minister praised the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), including the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and the Narcotics Criminal Investigation Department (NCID), for their impartial actions against criminal syndicates.