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THE government has approved an allocation of RM1.5 billion for the construction of a border wall along the Kelantan-Thailand boundary, in a strategic move to combat smuggling and enhance national security.
Kelantan police chief Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mamat confirmed that the National Security Council (NSC) had conveyed the decision and that preliminary groundwork had already begun.
“The allocation has been approved for the construction of the wall, and the Chief Secretary to the Government, Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar, has conducted a site visit to the border,” he said at a press conference in Kota Baru.
“For the areas under the Sungai Golok Integrated River Basin Development Project, additional fencing will be installed.
“As for open areas, a wall will be built, and the project is expected to commence soon.”
Earlier reports noted that constructing a security wall along Sungai Golok in Rantau Panjang, Pasir Mas, is no longer a mere option, but a strategic necessity.
Authorities have long grappled with the challenge of monitoring the narrow and shallow river, which complicates enforcement even with the support of modern surveillance technologies such as artificial intelligence, drones, and CCTV systems.
In a separate development, Kelantan police have completed investigations into the controversial display of an Israeli flag during the '500 Pelayaran Solidariti Kelantan untuk Gaza' event held on 10 October.
Datuk Mohd Yusoff said eight individuals, including organisers and the flag printer, had their statements recorded.
“For the case involving the Israeli flag, we have recorded eight statements covering the organisers, the printer of the flag, and those who acted in the programme.
“The flag was printed by them. The investigation has concluded, and we are awaiting further action from the State Prosecution Director,” he said.
He reminded the public to remain sensitive to such matters.
“Even if the intention was theatrical or symbolic, flying the Israeli flag remains an offence,” he added.
The Attorney-General’s Chambers is reviewing the investigation papers, with Attorney General Tan Sri Mohd Dusuki Mokhtar previously confirming that the documents had been received by the Kelantan State Prosecution Director.
Meanwhile, Kelantan is witnessing a concerning rise in rape cases, particularly among minors and involving consensual acts, according to police.
Datuk Mohd Yusoff reported that from January to September this year, 131 rape cases were recorded, an increase from 114 cases during the same period last year.
“The majority of rape cases in Kelantan involve consensual relationships and underage individuals. These cases often come to light when families or hospitals file police reports.
“There are likely others who do not report due to family embarrassment when it involves consensual sex,” he explained.
He added that many of these incidents occur within private residences.
“These include situations where girls follow men to their homes or invite men into theirs. In some cases, the couple had only known each other for a week before engaging in sexual activity.
“There are also cases occurring in budget hotels,” he said.
Speaking after the monthly assembly at the Kelantan police contingent headquarters, Datuk Mohd Yusoff urged parents to monitor their children closely.
“In today’s environment, we must all stay alert and aware. It is no longer acceptable to be indifferent,” he warned. - October 21, 2025