Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution announces security review and enhanced protocols to combat cross-border crime and safeguard national stability.
BUKIT KAYU HITAM: The government will strengthen national security controls at all borders in response to dynamic regional geopolitical changes.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said this is crucial to counter threats like drug smuggling, firearms trafficking and migrant smuggling.
He stated that the first step involves a comprehensive review of existing laws and regulations. Amendments will be made to any areas found to be inadequate for current security challenges.
The government will also examine relevant international conventions on border control. This review will assess the suitability of current standard operating procedures and policies.
From an operational perspective, Saifuddin stressed that all security agencies must avoid working in silos. He called for fully integrated information, intelligence and data sharing between them.
A multi-layered access control system at entry points will be bolstered ahead of the National Integrated Immigration System’s full implementation. The NIISe is scheduled for phased completion by 2029.
“While waiting for the phased implementation to be completed in 2029, threats are already present,” he explained. The interim measures will include enhanced biometric systems and identity verification.
Saifuddin highlighted that Malaysia ranks 13th globally in the 2025 Global Peace Index. The nation is also the second most peaceful country within ASEAN.
He warned that this achievement and the strong economic performance it supports cannot be taken for granted. “We cannot take this lightly if controls at land, sea and air entry points are not tightened,” he said.
The minister made these remarks after an official visit to the Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and Security Complex here today.