SEMATAN: Artificial intelligence (AI) and behavioural profiling have become key tools in Malaysia’s ongoing war against wildlife trafficking under Ops Bersepadu Khazanah (OBK).
OBK is a joint initiative between the Royal Malaysian Customs Department, the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), and the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan), with each agency playing a crucial role in intercepting illegal wildlife trade.
So far, the operation has led to the seizure of millions of ringgit worth of wildlife and forest products, including live reptiles, exotic species, turtle eggs, and protected timber such as agarwood (gaharu), most of which were bound for China, Vietnam and India.
Customs Director-General, Datuk Wira Anis Rizana Mohd Zainudin said OBK, now in its 18th series, continues to strengthen the country’s defence against wildlife smuggling through coordinated enforcement and advanced detection systems.
Current trends also indicate that syndicates are shifting strategies from using bulk cargo to small, hand-carried luggage to reduce risk, making detection more complex.
“To counter this, Customs has deployed the AI dual-energy scanners, capable of distinguishing organic and non-organic materials in real time.
“We have also trained officers in Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) to observe behavioural cues and gestures among travellers.
“This combination of technology and human intelligence enhances our detection capability at entry points,” she said at a press conference after chairing the 18th OBK meeting here today.
Anis said the collaboration extends beyond enforcement agencies to include Aviation Security (AVSEC), the Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS), and Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB).
“Technology does not replace officers; it empowers them. OBK proves that intelligence-sharing and precision tools can disrupt global wildlife trafficking at its roots,” she said.
She shared that most wildlife smuggling cases were detected through passenger luggage as the animals must remain alive for them, unlike cargo shipments, which are hot and pose a high risk of death.
“All import and export transactions involving wild animals must be accompanied by permits and approval from Perhilitan.
“The power to import and export does not fall under the Customs Department as the department only enforces laws set by Perhilitan. Currently, border security authority lies under the AKPS,” she said.
