KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 20 — The RM560 million increase in the allocation under Budget 2025 to enhance border security has been described as timely, given the current situation.
Crime analyst Shahul Hamid Abdul Rahim said the announcement was eagerly awaited by the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (MCBA), the sole authority managing the country’s entry points, as it will significantly improve its operational efficiency.
“The inclusion of drone technology and artificial intelligence in the allocation is a crucial step toward tackling the smuggling of illicit goods, such as drugs and firearms, which frequently occurs in border regions and entry points,” he said.
Shahul also emphasised the need for enforcement agencies at entry points to adopt body cameras, to reduce the risk of corruption, and enhance the reputation of the country’s security forces.
Commenting on the RM2.1 billion allocation for constructing new police stations, he said it is critical to upgrade outdated stations, especially in light of the attack on the Ulu Tiram police station in Johor on May 17.
“The security features of the new police stations must be enhanced, not only to protect the personnel, but also their families, who reside in staff quarters within the compound,” he said.
During the budget’s tabling on Friday (October 18) by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, was announced that the Home Ministry (KDN) will receive a RM19.5 billion allocation, a RM500 million increase compared to 2024.
The Defence Ministry (Mindef) will receive RM21.2 billion, marking a RM1.4 billion increase compared with the previous year.
Meanwhile, defence analyst Noor Nirwandy Mat Noordin said the allocation for the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency, which includes a Multi-Purpose Mission Ship, two New Generation Patrol Vessels, and the upgrade of six vessels under Phase Two of the Ship Life Extension Programme, signals the government’s commitment to safeguarding national borders.
“The government’s focus on sovereignty and territorial integrity, especially concerning disputes in the South China Sea, will strengthen national border security,” he said.
Nirwandy added that the National Service Training Programme 3.0, which will be launched as a pilot project, with a new concept and a RM50 million allocation, is expected to cultivate a security mindset among the younger generation and raise awareness about security issues in the country.
Defence analyst Azmi Hassan assured the public that there is no cause for concern regarding a lack of sudden increases in allocations for issues related to the South China Sea, such as the procurement of Royal Malaysian Navy assets.
“Besides the government’s focus on diplomatic measures to address South China Sea issues, funds can be directed toward various other initiatives, especially border security, particularly since the MCBA has just been established,” he said.
Azmi noted that the increased allocations for both KDN and Mindef, compared with last year, demonstrate the government’s recognition of the critical roles these ministries play in addressing current challenges.
“In fact, when the allocations for these two ministries are combined, they represent the highest funding received, surpassing that of the Education Ministry and the Health Ministry,” he said.
— Bernama
