MACC chief Azam Baki warns that corruption at Kelantan’s border with Thailand enables smuggling and could lead to more serious crimes like human trafficking.
KOTA BHARU: Kelantan’s geographical position bordering Thailand poses significant risks of corruption within enforcement circles, particularly involving smuggling activities.
Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki said the commission has begun working with the Malaysia Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) to mitigate these risks.
“In Kelantan, specifically in Rantau Panjang, Pasir Mas, and Bukit Bunga, Tanah Merah, the issues are predominantly border-centric,” he said during a live broadcast on an RTM Kelantan talk show.
He said numerous enforcement-related leakages have been identified, including tax evasion involving smuggled goods, agricultural produce, and subsidised items.
Azam warned that if not strictly monitored, these leakages could escalate to serious crimes such as human trafficking and narcotics distribution.
He stressed that cleaning up operations at identified hotspots must be carried out aggressively, including close monitoring of officers at border checkpoints.
The MACC’s primary focus is on civil servants, while other agencies spearhead efforts against smuggling and related criminal offences.
“As the co-chairman for Enforcement Coordination, I view border security as a persistent issue involving substantial leakages that impact both federal and state coffers,” he said.
Azam asserted that leakages often stem from the involvement of a handful of enforcement officers and would not thrive without collusion.
“Before we take action against smugglers, we must first ensure that our officers possess the highest level of integrity,” he added.
He urged the public to assist by channelling information regarding corruption or leakages, with assurances of whistleblower protection.
“Should any officer reveal the identity of a whistleblower, that officer will face action,” he warned.
