KUALA LUMPUR – The Immigration, Customs, Quarantine & Security (ICQS) complexes in Rantau Panjang, Kelantan and Bukit Berapit, Perak will be upgraded as part of the government’s commitment to border security.
Putrajaya will also build two border posts in Sabah’s Bantul and Serudung, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim (Tambun-PH) in tabling Budget 2025 today.
Additionally, enforcement agencies will be equipped with drone and AI technology to enhance surveillance capabilities.
These will come under the RM560 million allocation to strengthen the country’s border security as well as the establishment of the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency.
Currently, 63 countries are utilising an automatic gate system at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) to streamline entry processes.
Additionally, a QR code method has been implemented to facilitate checks for bus passengers and motorcyclists at the main southern entry points, reducing inspection time by up to 40%.
RM20 million has been allocated for ongoing enhancements.
Maritime assets will be increased and maintained, including new acquisitions under the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency, such as six ships under the Ship Life Extension Programme Phase 2, a multi-purpose mission ship, and two new-generation patrol boats.
Moreover, the development of towns along the border with Kalimantan, Indonesia, and southern Thailand is a priority, with nearly RM1 billion allocated for infrastructure.
This will include building the Rantau Panjang to Golok bridge, and the Pengkalan Kubor to Tumpat bridge, costing over RM50 million.
On top of that, RM5 million has been set aside for a hybrid system to provide clean water using rainwater and groundwater, to address the water supply issues in Sabah’s ESSZone. – October 18, 2024