KUALA LUMPUR: All officers of the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) at manual document inspection counters are now required to wear body cameras to record interactions with visitors, the home minister said today.
Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail described the move as part of a technology-driven effort to combat “counter setting” syndicates involving officers at entry points, including Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA).
He added that manual counters would also be monitored through smart CCTV systems equipped with AI-based video analytics.
“Through this method, any suspicious behaviour, including attempted offences, can be detected earlier, closing gaps for misconduct and enhancing officers’ accountability on the ground,” Saifuddin said in a written response on the Parliament website.
The minister’s comments came in response to a question from Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan (PN-Kota Bharu) about measures to tackle ongoing syndicate activity, following the arrest of 18 AKPS officers during Ops Rentas conducted by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC).
Saifuddin said the ministry was adopting automation, smart screening, and reduced human intervention at border checkpoints to minimise the risk of syndicate activity.
The approach complements disciplinary measures, tighter internal controls such as asset declaration checks, lifestyle monitoring of officers, and integrity-strengthening programmes.
He also highlighted the implementation of a Risk Assessment Engine (RAE) powered by artificial intelligence and machine learning, alongside a Foreign Digital Identity (FDI) system to create a single digital identity for each foreign visitor.
The digital identity will integrate with a centralised biometric system using fingerprints, iris scans, and facial recognition, creating a unique and secure record for each visitor.
“The ministry is also rolling out the Advance Passenger Screening System (APSS), which screens visitor information before arrival at the country’s entry points,” he said.
Saifuddin added that autogates would be expanded as a primary defence against counter-setting, currently available to visitors from 63 countries and long-term pass holders.
From this month, autogates will be introduced at major entry points before gradually expanding to all entry points by 2028, alongside stronger oversight and data integrity at manual counters.
Acknowledging the seriousness of counter-setting at entry points, including KLIA, he said that through strict enforcement, integrated monitoring, modern technology, and a culture of integrity, the government aims to reduce corruption risks and safeguard national security.
Malay Mail – Malaysia
