KUALA LUMPUR: The allocation of RM560 million for border security enhancement in the 2025 Budget (Belanjawan 2025) reflects a comprehensive strategy to improve border management and strengthen national security, security experts say.
Dr Mohd Ramlan Mohd Arshad of Universiti Teknologi Mara's Administrative Science and Policy Studies Faculty said the additional RM500 million to the Home Ministry was a commendable and sensible step by the government.
"There is a growing need to protect national borders and boost security in a rapidly developing global environment.
"This investment in Integrated Customs, Quarantine, and Security (ICQS) facilities is necessary as effective border checkpoints are the first line of defence against illegal immigration, smuggling, and other crimes that occur across international borders.
"The goal of upgrading these facilities is to enhance security while improving the movement of lawful goods and individuals," he said.
He also called for the use of artificial intelligence at border checkpoints to help border security operations as it allows authorities to evaluate massive volumes of data to discover patterns or abnormalities.
Ramlan added the implementation of a QR code system at airports mentioned in the budget would also allow streamlined operations cut down on wait times and improve security.
Commenting on the allocation of new vessels to the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA), Ramlan said this was vital as it allows the agency to patrol the country's vast maritime boundaries.
"The modernisation of marine capabilities is very necessary in light of the growing prevalence of issues around illicit fishing, human trafficking, and piracy," he said.
The 2025 Budget saw an increase of RM500 million for the Home Ministry from last year's allocation of RM19 billion.
Ramlan also said the RM5 million allocated to address water supply difficulties in the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (Esszone) is beneficial to maintain stability in the area.
"Because a sustainable infrastructure is essential to the upkeep of security in that sensitive area, it is essential to address water supply issues in Esszone.
"It is possible for water security to have an effect on the general stability of the area, which may have repercussions for both the security personnel stationed there and the surrounding people.
A security watchdog, Malaysians Against Rape, Assault and Snatch Theft (Marah) founder Dave Avran said the additional budget to strengthen border security and build two new border posts in Sabah is a welcomed effort.
He however said that all these measures will not be effective if enforcement is lax or compromised.
As such, he called for proper standard operating procedures to ensure no misuse or mismanagement.