By Ahmad Syabil Sultan Noordin Ahmad
PUTRAJAYA, April 30 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) will begin recruiting its first batch of cadets on July 1 in preparation for the Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link between Johor Bahru and Singapore.
Its director-general Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain said about 460 cadets will be selected to undergo three months of intensive training before being deployed to the Johor Bahru RTS by October
He said the move ensures personnel have sufficient time to adapt to operational and technical requirements before the system becomes fully operational on Jan 1, 2027.
“We will begin a two-month trial phase of work and rail systems to ensure all personnel at both locations - Woodlands (Singapore) and Bukit Chagar (Johor Bahru), are fully familiar and efficient with operating procedures ahead of the opening,” he told Bernama here today.
On the training module, Mohd Shuhaily said AKPS will incorporate a regimental approach to strengthen discipline and integrity among its personnel.
“I want to instil stronger discipline. Through this regimental culture, we can ensure integrity and work practices are upheld, with instructions carried out fully and consistently,” he said.
He cited past issues involving non-compliance with rules, such as the use of mobile phones by enforcement officers at Immigration counters, as matters that need to be addressed through stricter discipline.
In a related development, Mohd Shuhaily said AKPS has submitted a matrix study on the need for firearms among its personnel to the ministry for further evaluation.
“For now, we are considering the use of firearms and tasers. Tasers are more suitable for airport duties, while firearms are necessary for operations along the northern border,” he said.
He added that the procurement is not intended to create a fully armed unit, but to ensure the safety of personnel, given the challenges at border entry points that are exposed to smuggling activities.
-- BERNAMA
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