Kuala lumpur: The National Border Security Index (IKSN), an annual benchmark to assess the security of Malaysia’s borders, was officially launched today, said Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail. Developed by the Malaysian Institute of Public Safety (IPSOM) in collaboration with Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), the index provides a comprehensive, data-driven evaluation of the performance, effectiveness, and readiness of the country’s border enforcement agencies.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the index is unique as it draws on credible data from 31 agencies responsible for border security, extending beyond just the police and immigration departments. Saifuddin shared these insights with reporters after the Home Ministry’s monthly assembly, where Home Ministry Secretary-General Datuk Awang Alik Jeman and Deputy Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay were also present.
Saifuddin explained that the system operates on a centralized cloud platform, enabling agencies to submit data twice a year based on 58 specific indicators. This aggregated data forms the basis of the IKSN’s annual assessment. The index employs a five-tier scoring scale to rate security levels, ranging from “Very Safe” to “Unsafe.”
Currently, the index has identified 12 cross-border threats, including illegal immigration, human trafficking, drug and firearms smuggling, and kidnapping for ransom (KFR). Saifuddin noted that kidnapping for ransom and sea robbery scored 0.00, indicating very high security, while firearms smuggling scored 0.22, remaining within the “Very Safe” range.
The IKSN aims to support more strategic decision-making for asset and personnel deployment, identify high-risk zones, and strengthen annual budget justifications for border security. Saifuddin emphasized the importance of reliable data in determining the optimal allocation of resources, necessary manpower, and agency responsibilities, particularly when submitting annual budget proposals to the Finance or Economy Ministries.
He reiterated that Malaysia’s border security remains stable, a crucial factor for national resilience and investor confidence.