PUTRAJAYA: The Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) is expected to take over operations of all 125 international gateways nationwide by January.
AKPS director-general Comm Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain said the agency has entered the second phase of its implementation plan, which involves taking over all remaining active international entry points across the country.
"This phase will be carried out in stages and is expected to be completed by January.
"With this expansion, AKPS will assume responsibility for all 125 international gateways nationwide, ensuring a more uniform, integrated and efficient border control and facilitation system," he said in his speech at the agency's first anniversary celebration on Friday (Oct 17).
Comm Shuhaily said that as a relatively young agency, AKPS is focusing on shaping its strategic direction and long-term development plan, including strengthening its human resource capacity.
"We will also develop the AKPS Strategic Plan, which will act as a roadmap for structural enhancement, operational expansion and improved service efficiency.
"We will also utilise smart border technologies that will drive future operations, including an integrated biometric system, automated cargo scanning, real-time data integration, and AI-driven analytics," he said.
Comm Shuhaily said Oct 17 has been chosen as the agency’s first anniversary, commemorating the gazettement of the AKPS Act 2024 on this day last year.
"It was a historic milestone marking its official recognition as an agency under the Home Ministry.
"However, the agency officially began operations on Jan 1, meaning there may effectively be two anniversary dates for AKPS moving forward," he added.
With full operations starting on Jan 1, he said the agency has taken over functions and positions of six core agencies along the country's borders and checkpoints.
"The agencies are the Immigration Department, the Customs Department, the Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services Department (Maqis), the Health Ministry, the Wildlife and National Parks Department (Perhilitan), and the Road Transport Department (JPJ)," he added.
In early October, the transfer of 1,053 Customs officers increased AKPS’ manpower to 6,215 personnel, Comm Shuhaily said.
"This transition also brings new challenges, as customs inspection duties at 22 entry points have now been fully handed over to AKPS – a major responsibility not only for the agency, but also for the ministry as a whole," he said.
Among the agency's key achievements in its first year are drafting and gazettement of the AKPS Act and the official commencement of operations at 22 land, sea, and air entry points nationwide under phase one of the Act’s implementation.
"We also implemented the standardisation of SOPs and enhancement of officer competency to reinforce professionalism and integrity within the agency.
"With phase two now underway, AKPS is on track to become the nation’s primary border authority, equipped with modern technology, strengthened manpower and a clear strategic vision for safer, smarter, and more efficient borders," he said.
