KUALA LUMPUR: The use of drones and artificial intelligence (AI), along with enhanced intelligence-sharing with neighbouring countries, will be expanded to strengthen border security against smuggling and other cross-border crimes.
Bukit Aman Internal Security and Public Order Department (KDNKA) director Comm Datuk Seri Mohd Yusri Hassan Basri said greater use of technology was needed to better safeguard the nation’s borders against illegal activities.
“Border security is no longer solely dependent on manpower.
“We are moving towards technology-driven enforcement by deploying drones, improving intelligence-sharing and exploring the use of AI to enhance surveillance and monitoring capabilities,” he said yesterday.
He said while the police were responsible for securing border areas, security at official entry points falls under the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) and other enforcement bodies.
“We are responsible for safeguarding the border areas on land and at sea.
“Smuggling is a cross-border issue and requires close cooperation with our counterparts in neighbouring countries.”
Comm Mohd Yusri said monitoring Malaysia’s extensive borders, particularly from Perlis to Kelantan as well as in Sabah and Sarawak, presents significant operational challenges.
“The borders are vast. Technology will help us enhance patrols and enforcement, enabling us to curb illegal activities along the country’s borders more effectively.”
He stressed that strong community cooperation remains crucial in combating cross-border crime, noting that the General Operations Force (GOF) maintains 178 posts nationwide where officers regularly engage with residents through community policing programmes.
“Building trust with local communities is essential.
“When residents feel comfortable working with enforcement agencies, they are more willing to provide information that helps us detect illegal activities, including the smuggling of contraband, illegal immigration and the trafficking of controlled goods.”
Such cooperation has contributed to successful operations against human trafficking and the smuggling of contraband, including controlled items like petrol, diesel, rice, flour and cooking gas.
