A single border agency, 7 new patrol boats for maritime surveillance

A single border agency, 7 new patrol boats for maritime surveillance

THE allocation of RM19 bil or an increase of over RM500 mil for the Home Ministry (KDN) in Budget 2024, shows the government is serious about ensuring that law enforcement is intensified for the well-being of the people, said Home Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.

In a statement, the minister announced the creation of a single national border agency or Single Border Agency (SBA). Another RM20 mil has been allocated. There will also be seven new checkpoints in Sabah and Sarawak.

On the other hand, there will be an addition of nine units of new-generation patrol boats and interceptor boats for the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (APMM) seven units of twin-engine aircraft, and five units of Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) light helicopters.

The increased provision also ensures that enforcement agencies will continue to tighten smuggling control measures as well as integrate operations involving the Malaysian Immigration Department (JIM), PDRM and other enforcement agencies.

“In order to face the challenge of maintaining public safety and order and ensuring the sovereignty of the country is guaranteed, the Home Ministry will continue to work with the government to improve effectiveness and efficiency in service to the people and the country.

“I am confident that this Madani Budget initiative will empower enforcement agencies in Malaysia throughout the administration of the unity government,” he said in a statement.

Following the budgetary allocation, the ministry has forwarded a list of 15 initiatives it intends to carry out.

Here are some of the most important ones:

On top of the list is the creation of Baitul Mahabbah, which is the provision of temporary placement of children from immigration detention centres with an allocation of RM10 mil.

The ministry will also continue the Sow People’s Love Program (MEKAR) which offers services from the National Registration Department (JPN).

An allocation of RM20 mil to improve the functionality of the National Scam Response Center (NSRC) in combating scam crimes. Another RM20 mil goes to the Civil Society Grant from which residents will benefit from carrying out joint responsibilities for the implementation of volunteer programmes, solidarity, crime prevention and disaster prevention activities. – Oct 15, 2023