KOTA BARU: Kelantan's geographical position bordering Thailand poses significant risks of corruption within enforcement circles, particularly involving smuggling activities, says Tan Sri Azam Baki.
The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief commissioner said to mitigate these risks, the commission has begun working with the Malaysia Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS).
"In Kelantan, specifically in Rantau Panjang, Pasir Mas, and Bukit Bunga, Tanah Merah, the issues are predominantly border-centric.
"We have identified numerous enforcement-related leakages, including tax evasion involving smuggled goods, agricultural produce, subsidised items, and so on. Now we are working together with AKPS to monitor this.
"If not monitored strictly, these leakages could escalate to serious crimes such as human trafficking and narcotics distribution," he said on the RTM Kelantan talk show here on Thursday (Jan 22).
Elaborating further, Azam said that cleaning up operations at identified corruption and leakage hotspots must be carried out aggressively, including close monitoring of enforcement officers stationed at border checkpoints.
He said the MACC's primary focus is on civil servants, while other enforcement agencies would continue to spearhead efforts against smuggling and related criminal offences.
"As such, we have to ensure that all parties adhere to the regulations set. As the co-chairman for Enforcement Coordination (Multi-Agency Task Force), I view border security as a persistent issue involving substantial leakages that impact both federal and state coffers," he said.
Azam said leakages often stem from the involvement of a handful of enforcement officers, asserting that these activities would not thrive without elements of collusion.
"Before we take action against smugglers, we must first ensure that our officers possess the highest level of integrity," he added.
He also urged the public to assist authorities by channelling information regarding corruption or leakages, assuring them of whistleblower protection.
"There is no need to fear. Approach our officers to provide information. Should any officer reveal the identity of a whistleblower, that officer will face action," he warned. - Bernama
