PUTRAJAYA: The Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) is expected to take over the operations of all 125 international gateways nationwide by January next year, says Comm Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain.
The AKPS director-general 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.
“The phase will be carried out in stages and is expected to be completed by January 2026.
“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 during the agency’s first anniversary celebration here yesterday.
Comm Mohd Shuhaily said that as a relatively young agency, AKPS is now 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.
Year of progress: Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail (left) speaking with Comm Mohd Shuhaily at AKPS’ first anniversary celebration in Putrajaya. — Bernama
Meanwhile, Comm Mohd Shuhaily explained that Oct 17 was chosen as the agency’s first anniversary, commemorating the gazettement of the AKPS Act 2024 (Act 860) on the same date last year.
“It was a historic milestone, marking its official recognition as an agency under the Home Ministry,” he said.
“However, the agency officially began operations on Jan 1 this year, meaning there may effectively be two anniversary dates for AKPS moving forward.”
He said the agency would handle the functions and positions of six core departments, including a ministry along the country’s borders and checkpoints.
“They are the Immigration Department, Customs Department, Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services Department, the Health Ministry, the Wildlife and National Parks Department and the Road Transport Department,” he said.
Comm Mohd Shuhaily also said that the transfer of 1,053 Customs officers to the agency early this month had increased AKPS’ manpower to 6,215 personnel.
“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 Home Ministry as a whole,” he noted.
“Among the agency’s key achievements in its first year are the drafting and gazettement of the AKPS Act 2024 (Act 860) 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 boosted 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.
