Home minister says AKPS has full authority to act decisively against officers violating ethics, following the arrest of 29 personnel for corruption.
KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) has been granted full autonomy to act decisively against any officers found violating ethics and integrity.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said this autonomy ensures there is no compromise in cases of misconduct.
He cited the recent arrest of 29 AKPS officers and personnel on suspicion of corruption and abuse of power as proof that such cases are not concealed.
“I have no doubt whatsoever in the ability of the AKPS leadership to ensure that integrity is upheld,” Saifuddin Nasution said during a Dewan Rakyat session.
He added that any breach would result in firm action and a report to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC).
The minister was responding to a supplementary question from Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan regarding action against detained personnel.
Saifuddin Nasution stated that AKPS works closely with the MACC, police, and Immigration Department to uphold integrity.
This includes enforcing the Public Officers (Conduct and Discipline) Regulations 1993, which allow for disciplinary action including dismissal.
On staffing, he said recruitment of AKPS personnel would be carried out in stages, prioritising high-risk and high-traffic entry points.
A total of 6,866 personnel from various agencies are currently deployed to guard 122 of the country’s 140 active entry points.
The ideal requirement is 13,721 personnel, with the latest phase approving the recruitment of 200 former military personnel.
