Malaysia Border Guard Launched with First Intake of Armed Forces Veterans to Strengthen Border Security
KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysia has taken a significant step towards strengthening its national border security with the appointment of 48 former Malaysian Armed Forces personnel as the first intake of the Malaysia Border Guard (MBG) under the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency.
Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the inaugural group was selected from a total of 1,400 applicants, reflecting strong interest in the initiative aimed at reinforcing border control capabilities.
Rigorous Screening Ensures High Standards
Saifuddin emphasised that the selection process was thorough and competitive, involving multiple layers of evaluation, including psychometric testing, physical fitness assessments and structured interviews.
He said only candidates who met strict criteria were chosen, ensuring that the MBG begins with a highly capable and disciplined workforce.
“This first intake marks the beginning of a larger recruitment effort, with a target of 220 personnel supported by an RM8 million allocation under Budget 2026,” he said at the launch event.
The newly appointed members will be deployed based on strategic needs, with 31 assigned to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), 14 to Port Klang and the remaining three to AKPS headquarters.
Leveraging Military Experience for Border Security
The initiative aligns with a broader policy direction announced by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, which prioritises the recruitment of military veterans to enhance national security agencies.
AKPS director-general Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain said the decision to recruit former armed forces personnel was strategic, given their extensive experience in defence, discipline and operational readiness.
“These individuals bring invaluable expertise that allows them to transition effectively into border enforcement roles, particularly in high-risk and high-traffic areas,” he said.
Their background in handling complex security situations is expected to improve response capabilities and strengthen enforcement at key entry points.
Expanding Capacity to Meet Operational Demands
Saifuddin noted that the MBG initiative forms part of a broader effort to expand AKPS’ manpower to meet increasing operational demands.
Currently, the agency has approximately 6,800 personnel but requires up to 13,000 to effectively manage all 122 official entry points nationwide.
He added that further recruitment will be carried out within the next eight months to meet this year’s target, with MBG members initially serving on one-year contracts.
Discussions are also ongoing regarding the possibility of equipping MBG personnel with firearms, given the potential risks associated with border enforcement duties. The proposal is still under review at the ministry level.
Security Challenges Highlight Need for Reinforcement
Saifuddin also addressed ongoing investigations into a shooting incident in Bukit Kayu Hitam, Kedah, which underscored the risks faced by enforcement personnel.
The incident, which occurred in February, involved gunfire directed at a vehicle driven by an AKPS officer, though no injuries were reported.
Such cases highlight the importance of strengthening border security measures and ensuring personnel are adequately prepared for potential threats.
Integrity and Professionalism at the Core
Mohd Shuhaily stressed that integrity and professionalism are key criteria in the recruitment of MBG personnel, ensuring that only trustworthy individuals are entrusted with safeguarding the country’s borders.
He added that the initiative is not only about increasing manpower but also about enhancing the overall quality and effectiveness of enforcement operations.
The MBG programme represents a strategic move by the government to integrate experienced personnel into border control, improve coordination and deliver stronger security outcomes for the nation.
-wilayah.com.my
