KUCHING: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has announced that comprehensive preparations are currently underway for the operational launch of the Malaysian Border Protection Agency (AKPS), scheduled to begin in 2026.
AKPS Director-General Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaili Mohd Zain said that 125 identified entry points will be officially handed over on Jan 1 next year.
“Thorough preparations are being carried out to ensure that the agency can operate efficiently, with high integrity and strong coordination,” he said after officiating the 2025 Sarawak-level International Anti-Corruption Day (HARA) celebration at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) yesterday (Nov 7).
He added that existing work processes will remain the same, but officers will be divided into two groups.
“Some officers will be absorbed into AKPS, while others will remain in their respective departments to assist until AKPS becomes fully stable and capable of operating independently,” he said.
He elaborated that the stabilisation process would take time as it involves not only human resources but also training, technological advancement, and institutional strengthening.
“Technically, yes, we are ready, but overall, we still need a little more time,” he explained.
He noted that the Australian Border Force and Singapore’s Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) also took time to achieve full operational maturity.
“So, if you ask me about the timeline, I can’t give a definite answer as to when we will be fully stable as a single agency,” he added.
When asked about the involvement of 220 Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) veterans in AKPS, he said their participation would help ease human resource constraints.
“A total of 220 personnel will be recruited in stages through collaboration with the Department of Veterans Affairs to identify suitable candidates.
“We truly appreciate their energy and expertise, especially those who served under the short-service scheme,” he said.
Touching on the importance of integrity within AKPS, he acknowledged the challenge of uniting six agencies with different work cultures and regulations.
“That is the challenge for me and my team — to unite and instil the spirit of AKPS as hoped for by Malaysians, a spirit of honesty and sincerity in carrying out our duties,” he said.
