AKPS will take over two northern entry points in Q2 2026, bolstering border security with new recruits and managing the upcoming RTS link to Singapore.

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) is set to expand its operations to two major northern entry points by the second quarter of 2026.

Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail confirmed the agency will take over operations at Padang Besar and Wang Kelian in Perlis.

This forms part of the second phase of AKPS’s expansion, following its official launch at 22 entry points nationwide on Jan 1, 2025.

Saifuddin highlighted the agency’s strong performance, with seizure values exceeding RM80 million in its first year of pilot operations.

He provided this update in the Dewan Negara in response to a query on AKPS’s readiness along the Perlis-Thailand border.

To meet manpower needs, the government has approved recruiting 200 former armed forces personnel for new AKPS positions.

The minister said selecting former military personnel, especially those retired at 38, is a win-win strategy leveraging their discipline and skills.

“They will start with a salary of RM2,900, in addition to the pension they already receive,” he said.

He added that former retired police personnel may also be considered for recruitment in the future.

Saifuddin also stated AKPS is prepared to oversee operations at the Rapid Transit System (RTS) link between Johor Bahru and Singapore.

The RTS route is expected to commence operations in October 2026.

A total of 640 new positions have been approved specifically to manage the RTS, anticipating 10,000 passengers per hour.

The minister said AKPS currently has a total workforce strength of 6,883 personnel.

The ministry is targeting an ideal future strength of 13,721 personnel for the agency.

 The Sun Malaysia