MELAKA: The Army is using advanced drone technology to strengthen security monitoring in hard-to-reach areas along the Malaysia-Thailand border, particularly in response to the unrest in southern Thailand.
Army Chief General Tan Sri Azhan Md Othman said the technology enables the Army to overcome challenges posed by hilly and densely forested terrain, where physical troop patrols are difficult.
"It is true that the border stretches over a long distance and there are areas that cannot be patrolled due to the terrain.
"So aerial assets are used to gather information and provide a real-time overview before ground units are deployed to take further action," he told Bernama at Terendak Camp, Sungai Udang here on Thursday (Sept 17).
Azhan also said border security remains tight with round-the-clock operations.
"We do not deny that the terrain provides opportunities for illegal routes but the situation remains under control. We will ensure that no elements are able to breach our border.
"Our personnel are provided with clear rules of engagement, under which firm and decisive action will be taken immediately," he added.
Meanwhile, Azhan said his recent official visit to Russia, at the invitation of the Russian Ground Forces, was aimed at strengthening bilateral military ties.
"The main areas discussed with our Russian counterparts included training cooperation and opportunities for course exchanges, particularly in combined arms and artillery.
Both sides are now in the final stages of finalising the arrangements before Army personnel are sent to undergo the specialised training," he said. – Bernama
