Kuala lumpur: The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) have been urged to refine their working methods and the deployment of personnel at petrol stations near the country's borders, said Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail. He stated that as the directive on the placement of personnel is still new, the PDRM needs to focus on strengthening its capabilities by implementing clear standard operating procedures (SOPs).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the police will need time to organise their movements before deploying teams to take on this additional responsibility as instructed by the Cabinet. Saifuddin emphasized the importance of defining the assignment details, applicable laws, and the units to be deployed, leaving these specifics to the police. This move is part of a Cabinet decision made last week to enhance monitoring and enforcement at petrol stations due to the increased risk of fuel leakages amid the global energy crisis.

The deployment is an expansion of the static presence of enforcement officers from the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry, which has been ongoing since March 20. Additionally, Saifuddin directed immediate improvements to facilities for security personnel at border areas, citing unsatisfactory conditions. He pointed out that some control posts and rest areas were in poor condition, despite the crucial role personnel play in curbing smuggling activities.

Saifuddin mentioned that improvements would be expedited, as demonstrated with the Wang Kelian post, to show that leadership at the Home Ministry is attentive to such issues. He assured that these upgrades would not incur high costs and emphasized the importance of addressing such matters promptly.