PETALING JAYA: A RM453mil increase in allocation will give the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) a total of RM490mil under Budget 2027 to strengthen border security and operational readiness at the country's entry points.
AKPS said its priorities for next year included strengthening the implementation of its service scheme, enhancing the competencies of its officers and Malaysia Border Guard (MBG) personnel, and expanding operational readiness at gazetted entry points.
Preparations for the full operation of the Johor Baru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link were also a priority to ensure border control capabilities could keep pace with increased movement of people, goods and cross-border trade.
"These efforts are important to ensure AKPS has the capabilities and capacity to match the growing movement of people, goods and cross-border trade.
"AKPS is committed to ensuring that every allocation is used prudently, transparently and with high impact, guided by the principles of good governance, accountability and integrity," it said in a statement on Saturday (Oct 10).
The agency noted that its allocation had increased from RM37mil this year to RM490mil in 2027, reflecting the Government's priority to enhance operational capabilities, strengthen integrated border management and reinforce AKPS' role as the lead agency for the country's border control and protection.
"AKPS' priority is not only to ensure the security of the country's entry points, but also to strengthen public and investor confidence in Malaysia's border management system.
"AKPS will continue to support the Madani Government's Reform Agenda through the Home Ministry's Reform Initiative to ensure the transformation of the country's border management is implemented comprehensively, sustainably and effectively," it said.
Separately, AKPS said the RM22bil allocation to the Home Ministry demonstrated the Government's commitment to strengthening the domestic security ecosystem.
The agency also noted Budget 2027's emphasis on tighter airport security screening, including the installation of 48 new body and baggage scanners at Kuala Lumpur International Airport, Penang International Airport and Kota Kinabalu International Airport.
Prime Minister and Finance Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced the RM490mil allocation for AKPS when tabling Budget 2027 in the Dewan Rakyat on Friday (Oct 9).
The Budget also provides for tighter airport security screening, including mandatory drug and alcohol tests for pilots and flight crew.
