SEPANG: Efforts in arming Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) personnel are moving forward, says Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail (pic).
The Home Minister said this follows discussions with the ministry’s secretary-general on equipping AKPS personnel with weapons under its long-term plan.
“There have been suggestions to begin with the use of taser guns, as not all situations at border areas require firearms.
“This will be studied further,” he told reporters after his working visit to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) yesterday.
In principle, he said he supports AKPS’ move towards the use of weapons in general.
He stressed that personnel operating in high-risk areas would be given appropriate preparation and support, noting that their duties differ significantly from other roles.
“They have undergone psychological and skills training as a professional security force.
“Those with prior experience in enforcement agencies, such as the police, already possess firearms handling skills.
“We only need to equip them accordingly,” he said.
Saifuddin Nasution also said the AKPS will expand its manpower through its Malaysian Border Guard (MBG) initiative.
“The government has allocated funds this year to enable the recruitment of up to 200 MBG personnel, consisting of armed forces veterans,” he said, adding that 50 recruits have been selected under the first phase of the initiative.
Saifuddin Nasution said these recruits came from diverse military backgrounds, including former commandos and drill instructors.
The MBG personnel have been deployed at key entry points, including KLIA and Port Klang, he added.
“I am open to proposals from the AKPS director-general if this recruitment approach continues to add value to the organisation.
“The ministry will support further recruitment through this method,” he noted.
He also said that 18 newly trained personnel have been deployed to KLIA, while a second intake is expected to be completed this year.
