The Rantau Panjang ICQS expects 50,000 travellers in the days surrounding Aidilfitri, with congestion anticipated as Thai workers in Malaysia return home.

PASIR MAS: The Rantau Panjang Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and Security Complex (ICQS) is preparing for significant congestion with an estimated 50,000 travellers expected to cross the border in the three days before and after Hari Raya Aidilfitri.

This annual surge is driven by Thai nationals working in Malaysia who are returning to their hometowns in Thailand for the festive celebration.

A recent survey at the complex observed nearly ten vans arriving from West Coast states, transporting Thai workers who often complete their journey into Thailand on hired motorbikes after arriving by bus from Kuala Lumpur and the Klang Valley.

Rantau Panjang ICQS deputy commander Bakri Sulaiman confirmed that congestion at the border checkpoint is anticipated to worsen in the coming days leading up to the first day of Syawal.

“It is hoped that all movements at ICQS here will run smoothly and we will open the maximum number of lanes, especially at the passport counter,” Bakri told reporters.

He added that operations have been extended, starting an hour earlier at 6 am daily to facilitate the increased flow of travellers.

Concurrently, enforcement agencies have tightened security checks at the border gates to prevent the smuggling of controlled goods and fuel.

Bakri stated that all officers have been instructed to increase vehicle inspections, particularly for those heading into Thailand, due to concerns that parties might exploit the festive period for illicit activities.

“We warn any party that tries to take advantage, including smuggling fuel using additional tanks, not to do so if they do not want to be subject to strict action,” he emphasised.

The ICQS will also maintain close collaboration with other border enforcement agencies to gather intelligence and thwart any smuggling attempts through the complex.

 The Sun Malaysia