-The Star filepic
KUALA LUMPUR: The Border Control and Protection Agency should balance facilitating smooth entry into the country with being firm in preventing threats, according to Alliance for a Safe Community chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye.
Lee commended the Border Control and Protection Agency director-general Comm Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain on his goal to strengthen integrity and professionalism within the agency.
"I commend his declaration to transform the Border Control and Protection Agency to become an enforcement body highly respected for its integrity and the unwavering determination of its officers in combating crime. It is a strong and much-needed statement. Comm Mohd Shuhaily's message reflects clear leadership and vision," he said when contacted on Monday (Oct 20).
Lee said the Border Control and Protection Agency must balance two critical roles: facilitating the smooth entry of people and services across the border, while being firm and stringent in preventing any entry that poses a security threat.
"We need to be polite and respectful to those entering the country. But at the same time, enforcement officers must be firm when enforcing the law," he said.
He lamented that the goals of upholding integrity and eliminating corruption are difficult to achieve, particularly within enforcement agencies.
"However, I am confident in Comm Mohd Shuhaily’s leadership, with his extensive experience in the police force a key advantage in elevating the Border Control and Protection Agency to greater heights.
"I believe his leadership skills and experience will enable him to build an agency that commands respect," he said.
Lee stressed that integrity is paramount not only for the Border Control and Protection Agency but for all enforcement agencies in Malaysia.
"Any enforcement agency carries a major responsibility to uphold the law fairly and justly, in a manner that earns public trust," he said.
He added that agencies must learn from past mistakes and take proactive steps to address weaknesses or shortcomings.
He also called for the government to fully equip the Border Control and Protection Agency with the necessary infrastructure, facilities, and trained manpower to carry out its duties effectively.
"With proper support, the Border Control and Protection Agency will be able to operate efficiently and maintain high integrity," he added.
Lee also urged all personnel within enforcement agencies to give their best and always prioritise national security.
"They must never do anything that jeopardises the country’s safety," he said.
