SEPANG: Stricter measures will be imposed on the recruitment and termination of Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) officers to curb wrongdoing, especially smuggling, says Comm Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain.

The newly appointed director-general said matters of integrity would be his priority.

“We will propose several procedures so that recruitment and termination of officers will be stricter, whereby stern action will be taken against those colluding with smugglers.

“The proposals will be subjected to the approval of policymakers.

“Personally, I will not compromise on matters of integrity,” he told reporters after his working visit to KL International Airport (KLIA) on Tuesday (July 8).

He said that when an agency officer was entrusted with various duties involving multiple agencies, their scope of authority would also expand.

“He or she will be vulnerable to untoward opportunities.

“That is why I emphasise the importance of upholding integrity so that unhealthy temptations can be thwarted,” he said.

On his working visit, Comm Mohd Shuhaily, who also took a look at the airport’s cargo facility, said various aspects needed to be delved into deeper.

“For example, there are only 12 Health Ministry’s Pharmaceutical division personnel tasked with inspecting scheduled goods.

“We have to look into this matter deeper as the ministry staff will become AKPS officers too and vice versa.

“We will also look into the use of technology to ease the burden faced by officers,” he said.

Comm Mohd Shuhaily said emphasis will also be given to taking over human resources and acquiring new assets.

“We will also ensure that our operation and intelligence gathering capabilities will be strengthened to curb smuggling activities at the country’s 22 entry points,” he said.