Data-driven index for border control


PUTRAJAYA: The government has launched the National Border Security Index (IKSN) as a strategic mechanism to measure the effectiveness and preparedness of enforcement agencies guarding Malaysia’s borders annually.

Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the index, developed by the Institute of Public Security of Malaysia in collaboration with Universiti Teknologi Mara, will utilise data from 31 enforcement agencies to produce a data-driven security performance score.

“What makes this index unique is that it’s based on verified data provided by multiple agencies, not just the usual enforcement bodies,” he said after the ministry’s monthly assembly yesterday.

He said the ministry built a cloud-based system where these agencies upload data twice a year based on key indicators that were set. The data will then be compiled and analysed.

He said the IKSN comprises 58 indicators across sectors, including immigration, maritime security, customs enforcement and anti-smuggling operations.

“The index operates on a five-tier scale: (0.00-1.0) Very Safe; (1.1-2.0) Safe; (2.1-3.0) Moderately Safe; (3.1-4.0) Less Safe; and (4.1-5.0) Unsafe,” he said.

“Twelve types of cross-border crimes were identified under the index, including illegal immigration, human trafficking, drug and firearms smuggling and kidnapping for ransom (KFR).”

Saifuddin Nasution added that KFR and sea robberies are recorded in the best tier so far, with a score of 0.00, followed closely by firearms smuggling at 0.22.

He also stressed that the IKSN would serve as a blueprint for asset deployment, personnel allocation and budget planning.

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