KOTA BARU: The Plantation and Commodities Ministry plans to deploy officers from the Road Transport Department (RTD) in its operation against the smuggling of dried tobacco leaves into the country.
Its deputy secretary-general Datuk Zailani Hashim said the involvement of RTD officers was important as they were stationed at the country's entry points in four states.
"We have four entry points that have borders with Thailand, namely Perak, Perlis, Kedah and Kelantan, and to prevent more dried tobacco leaves and other illegal items from entering this country, the National Kenaf and Tobacco Board (NKTB) needs to work with RTD officers.
"We know that many foreign vehicles have been entering Malaysia via these entry points regularly and many were caught by the RTD officers for various offences under the Road Transport Act 1987.
"If the foreigners are found with other illegal goods, such as drugs, tobacco leaves and other smuggled items, the RTD officers can alert NKTB, the Customs and the police so that action can be taken against the offenders," he said.
Speaking at a press conference at the state NKTB office here today, Zailani who is former RTD director-general said this kind of move would make the joint operation more effective.
"I had discussed this with the Kelantan RTD director recently and we will meet the other three state RTD directors soon.
"If all goes well, NKTB's next enforcement operation will be joined by RTD officers as well as the Customs and police."
He said this initiative was expected to start soon.