Kuala lumpur: The government is prepared to support the needs of the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS), including the provision of weapons and safety equipment, to ensure the agency can carry out its duties more effectively. Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail emphasized the importance of equipping AKPS to strengthen security controls at the country's 122 entry points.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, as a newly established agency, AKPS has the flexibility to structure its operations in line with current needs. Saifuddin stated that it is crucial for AKPS to enhance the safety of its personnel and that the decision to use firearms and other equipment would be left to the agency's leadership, specifically its director-general, Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain. The Home Ministry is committed to providing support to ensure the agency can effectively carry out its responsibilities while ensuring the safety of its personnel.

The announcement was made during the launch of 'Op Khas Pagar Laut 2026' by the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency. The launch took place aboard the maritime vessel Tun Fatimah at the National Hydrography Centre, Lebuh Sungai Chandong, Bandar Armada Putra.

Mohd Shuhaily mentioned that the agency is assessing the need to equip its officers with firearms and bulletproof vests to ensure their safety during operations. This consideration gained urgency following an incident where a Proton X70 driven by AKPS Bukit Kayu Hitam commander Mohd Nasaruddin Mohd Nasir came under gunfire near the Malaysia-Thailand border. Fortunately, Mohd Nasaruddin, who was on his way to perform Subuh prayers, escaped unhurt.