Kuala lumpur: The Malaysian Immigration Department has emphasized its unwavering stance on maintaining strict protocols at the country's entry points, particularly against the 'hand-raising' practice, which could compromise national security. Immigration Department director-general Datuk Zakaria Shaaban highlighted the importance of integrity and adherence to regulations in safeguarding the nation's borders. According to BERNAMA News Agency, Zakaria disclosed that, so far, no official reports have been filed regarding such practices at the Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and Security (ICQS) Complex along the Malaysia-Thailand border, even during peak periods. He assured that any officer found participating in such activities would face decisive actions in line with the relevant laws and regulations. Zakaria acknowledged the potential occurrence of such practices at various border entry points and urged the public to report any instances directly to the department for proper investigation and action. He rei terated the necessity for all travelers to present their passports or border passes during immigration checks, in accordance with Section 6 of the Immigration Act 1959/63. He further explained that even the smallest compromise, like 'hand-raising', could initiate a series of security breaches that might invite organized crime and other threats to national security. He emphasized that integrity is essential and that procedures must strictly adhere to established standard operating procedures (SOPs) and legal frameworks. Zakaria also recognized the pressure faced by ICQS officers from external parties and syndicates attempting to sway their duties. He noted that these officers serve as the frontline defense against the 'hand-raising' culture and acknowledged the operational challenges they encounter. Earlier reports by BERNAMA indicated concerns raised by crime analyst Shahul Hamid Abdul Rahim regarding lax border controls. Rahim criticized practices allowing individuals to enter via special ICQS lanes by me rely raising their hands without valid documents, highlighting potential risks of criminal activities and smuggling. In a previous incident reported by BERNAMA, eight individuals, including a civil servant, were arrested at the Rantau Panjang ICQS Complex for crossing the Malaysia-Thailand border without proper documentation, simply by raising their hands. The detainees, traveling in luxury vehicles, were intercepted by the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency officers.