KUALA LUMPUR, July 16 — The Malaysia Border Control and Protection Agency Bill 2024, aimed at establishing the Malaysia Checkpoints and Border Agency (MCBA), was passed in the Dewan Rakyat today.
The bill was approved by majority vote after it was presented for third reading by Deputy Home Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Shamsul Anuar Nasarah.
When winding up the debate on the bill, Shamsul Anuar said the MCBA would take over the functions of agencies at the country’s entry points, such as the Immigration Department and the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM).
However, he said, this takeover does not include the functions of interpretation and collection of duties or taxes at permanent entry points, as managed by the JKDM, Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services Department, Road Transport Department, Wildlife and National Parks Department, and the Health Ministry.
“The transition of these functions will not affect the agencies or ministries outside the entry points, which also play a role as checks and balances for the entry of people, goods and vehicles into the country that have passed MCBA control at entry points,” he added.
Regarding the staffing of the MCBA, Shamsul Anuar said 13,720 positions involving existing agencies managing the country’s entry points are expected to be transitioned to roles as MCBA members.
On July 9, the bill was tabled for first reading, with the aim of outlining the proposed functions and powers of the MCBA and provisions for related matters.
It proposed that if an offence is committed under any law of Sabah or Sarawak, the enforcement, investigation and prosecution of the offence will be carried out by the respective state authorities.
— Bernama
