PUTRAJAYA: The Home Ministry of Malaysia will implement new and latest technology to enhance the monitoring of rat lanes at the Malaysia-Thailand border, Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail announced. The initiative aims to strengthen security and address potential threats in the region.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Saifuddin Nasution stated that the Home Ministry plans to invite several local and international companies to conduct a proof of concept (POC) showcasing their technology and expertise. This move is part of a comprehensive strategy to evaluate and ensure the effectiveness of technological solutions at the border. “We will see until we are truly satisfied, in terms of controlling security, the border including security or potential threats involving rat lanes,” he said at a press conference following the Home Ministry’s monthly assembly.

In discussing infrastructure solutions, Saifuddin Nasution also addressed the proposal to construct a wall along the Malaysia-Thailand border
, highlighting the high costs associated with such a project. “This fence is expensive and its maintenance is also expensive. So, times have changed (it) may be appropriate at that time,” he remarked, suggesting that technological advancements might offer more cost-efficient alternatives.

Local media reports indicate that the General Operations Force (GOF) identified 281 rat lanes used for cross-border criminal activities, with 154 located along the Malaysia-Thailand border. Kelantan was noted for recording the highest number of rat lanes, with 128 identified, covering 46 percent of the entire study. The breakdown of rat lanes by state includes Perlis (8), Kedah (18), Selangor (12), Johor (27), Sarawak (38), and Sabah (50).

The initiative reflects a broader effort by the Malaysian government to modernize and improve border security measures in response to evolving challenges.