SEPANG, March 8 — The Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS), which began operating last month, has significantly reduced bureaucracy and streamlined services at the country's entry points, said Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.
The consolidation of various agencies under AKPS has simplified processes, making it easier for travellers and clients to deal with a single agency.
“The most notable feedback is that bureaucracy has been significantly reduced since we merged multiple services under one roof.
“Clients have reported that dealing with one agency is far easier than their previous experiences,” he told the press after attending the AKPS 2025 Ihya' Ramadan Noble Values Programme at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 1 yesterday night.
Saifuddin said the feedback was shared with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim after yesterday's Cabinet meeting, during which he requested updates on AKPS' implementation, the challenges faced, and success stories.
Although the agency is still in its early stages, the minister is optimistic that AKPS is on track to meet its objectives, with operations progressing according to plan.
“It is still too early to make conclusions, but the early signs are positive. I am optimistic that the decision to establish AKPS was the right one,” he said.
The agency currently operates at 22 entry points and will expand its coverage to 123 locations by the end of the year, surpassing the initial target of 118.
“I commend the AKPS leadership for accelerating the expansion ahead of schedule, which is expected to be completed by October,” Saifuddin said.
AKPS was officially established following the gazettement of the Border Control and Protection Agency Act 2024 on October 17 last year.
Operating under the Home Ministry, it consolidates personnel from various government departments, including the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM), the Royal Malaysia Police, the Immigration Department, the Department of Wildlife and National Parks, the Health Ministry, the Road Transport Department, and the Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services.
The agency currently comprises 6,000 officers and personnel, including 1,090 absorbed from JKDM.
On the Ihya’ Ramadan Programme, he said the initiative aims to instil noble values among AKPS personnel while appreciating frontline officers safeguarding the country’s main entry points.
Saifuddin also distributed sahur meal packs to on-duty officers during the event.
— Bernama
