JOHOR BARU: The government is committed to ensuring safety at the Johor Baru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link without compromising seamless passenger movement, says Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.
The Home Minister said advanced technology and manpower preparations were being strengthened at the Bukit Chagar Customs, Immigration and Quarantine (CIQ) Complex to prevent security threats such as human trafficking, people smuggling and illegal entry.
"One thing I want to emphasise is that in a large-scale project like this, we are not only talking about ensuring fast and seamless passenger movement, but also about how we use technology to ensure every movement is recorded, analysed and monitored in real time," he said during a working visit to the Bukit Chagar CIQ Complex on Friday (May 8).
Saifuddin Nasution said the CIQ would be equipped with 18 baggage scanners, 22 body scanners and 10mm-wave walkthrough scanners, which are being installed and tested.
He said the facility would utilise high-capability technology to strengthen security inspections at the country’s entry points.
He added that the goal was to ensure screening processes are carried out quickly, accurately and with integrity while maintaining national security.
"Our intention is not to make people’s movement or travel difficult.
"Our goal is to ensure (a thorough) screening process is carried out ... while facilitating passenger movement without compromising national security," he said.
On manpower preparations, Saifuddin Nasution said a total of 794 staffing warrants had been approved for RTS Link operations.
Of the total, the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) would make up the largest component with 640 positions, followed by the police with 107 and the Customs Department with 47.
He added that 478 newly appointed officers would begin operational training at the Segamat Police Training Centre (Pulapol) from June 22 to Sept 27 before being stationed at the CIQ Complex from Oct 1.
