Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution stated that the establishment of the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) does not involve creating new positions; rather, its officers and personnel are reassigned from other government agencies.
He mentioned today (2nd) during the AKPS launching ceremony that currently, AKPS comprises over 6,000 officers and personnel, including 1,090 officers from the Customs Department. Once fully operational, an expected total of 12,000 personnel will be involved.
Besides the Customs Department, AKPS members include personnel from the police, immigration department, Wildlife and National Parks Department (PERHILITAN), Health Ministry, Road Transport Department, and Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services Department (MAQIS).
He stated that the scope of AKPS implementation will be further expanded, and specific deployments will be planned based on current data from 19 points of entry.
He mentioned that the ministry has currently identified 141 points of entry nationwide, including land, sea, and air borders. The initial plan will prioritize setting up AKPS at international airports, such as Kuala Lumpur International Airport, Penang International Airport, and Kota Kinabalu International Airport.
Saifuddin emphasized that the establishment of AKPS does not overlap with other enforcement agencies responsible for border security, such as the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency.
He exemplified that AKPS only monitors the entry and exit activities at national border points, while maritime enforcement agencies are responsible for overseeing illegal fishing, smuggling of goods, firearms, and drugs across Malaysia's 590,000 km maritime boundary.
He noted that as the 11th major agency under the Home Ministry, AKPS must adhere to the prescribed standard operating procedures to ensure a more efficient delivery system, ensure smooth movement of travelers and goods, increase revenue, and enhance integrity.