Seven Malaysian vehicles stranded by Hatyai floods have returned via Rantau Panjang ICQS, undergoing strict inspections to prevent smuggling.
PASIR MAS: Seven Malaysian vehicles stranded by the Hatyai floods have returned to the country through the Rantau Panjang Immigration, Customs, Quarantine, and Security (ICQS) Complex since Nov 28.
Rantau Panjang Border Control and Protection Agency (MCBA) deputy commander Bakri Sulaiman said the vehicles, transported by Thai tow trucks, were transferred to their Malaysian counterparts at the border before undergoing mandatory inspection by MCBA, together with other agencies, including the Customs Department and the Road Transport Department.
He said the strict inspections were necessary to ensure there is no smuggling and to verify the vehicles’ genuine ownership.
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“Inspections are conducted thoroughly, including inside the vehicles, as well as checks on related documentation,” he told reporters at the Rantau Panjang ICQS today.
Bakri said the number of vehicles expected to return through Rantau Panjang could not be determined, as it depends on the vehicle owners and tow truck companies managing the transfer from Thailand.
“MCBA will not compromise on border security. Every vehicle entering must go through thorough checks before being allowed to proceed,” he said.
Malaysia’s Consul General in Songkhla, Ahmad Fahmi Ahmad Sarkawi reportedly said that over 500 Malaysian vehicles had been abandoned due to the severe floods in Hatyai since Nov 22. – Bernama
