The Malaysian government’s recent decision to increase funding for border protection to RM490 million in 2027 has drawn calls from experts to ensure that the allocation is deployed strategically, focusing on comprehensive improvements rather than solely on new equipment purchases. This substantial rise—from RM37 million allocated in 2026—comes amid growing concerns over Malaysian nationals being apprehended abroad for involvement in drug trafficking as couriers.
Criminologist Datuk Dr P. Sundramoorthy emphasized that the effectiveness of the funding should be evaluated based on improvements in detection capabilities rather than the quantity of new assets procured. He advocated for a shift from traditional inspection methods toward intelligence-led border control, stressing the need to enhance information-sharing among the Malaysia Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS), police, Customs, Immigration, the National Anti-Drug Agency, and international partners. According to Sundramoorthy, passenger risk assessments must rely on credible intelligence, travel patterns, and lawful indicators rather than profiling based on nationality or appearance.
He further warned that technological upgrades must be paired with well-trained personnel and robust operational procedures. “Purchasing sophisticated equipment without ensuring that officers can use it effectively would be a poor return on public investment,” Sundramoorthy said. He also highlighted the human factor’s critical role, cautioning that inconsistency in procedure enforcement and vulnerability to corruption or syndicate infiltration could undermine border security measures. Sundramoorthy suggested designating AKPS as the lead agency for border control operations if its mandate and accountability are clearly defined, addressing existing fragmentation, jurisdictional overlaps, and communication gaps that criminal networks exploit.
Crime analyst Datuk Shahul Hamid Abd Rahim underscored the importance of combining adequate manpower with advanced technology to enhance enforcement effectiveness. He urged authorities to identify and fortify key vulnerable entry points by bolstering infrastructure, such as secure inspection rooms, safe facilities for storing seized evidence, and improved working environments for personnel. Given recent high-profile drug smuggling cases, he recommended investment in detection systems at border entry points, as well as establishing oversight mechanisms to control access to sensitive data, document inspection procedures, and provide independent complaint channels.
Security expert Jamil Ghani welcomed the government’s plan to deploy 48 new body and baggage scanners but cautioned that this alone would not suffice. He stressed the need to strengthen intelligence-sharing frameworks supported by advanced risk-assessment tools, including the use of advance passenger data and travel-pattern analysis to identify potential threats preemptively. Jamil highlighted the importance of data protection safeguards accompanying these measures.
Ghani also called for enhanced coordination among enforcement agencies through clear protocols for joint operations, case referrals, and incident responses. He pointed to existing structures such as the Home Ministry-Transport Ministry Technical Committee, urging its full implementation to ensure a cohesive system wherein agencies maintain their individual responsibilities while collaborating effectively.