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PGA's new 'eye in the sky' to monitor Malaysia-Thai border

KANGAR: A digital border surveillance pilot project using drones is currently being tested at a key checkpoint along the Malaysia-Thailand border near Chuping and Padang Besar.

This initiative aims to strengthen national borders against intrusion, deploying drones for border monitoring and alerting General Operations Force (PGA) personnel to any unauthorised crossings within the area.

Perlis Police chief Datuk Muhammad Abdul Halim said that the Home Ministry has selected the PGA Northern Brigade to test the technology.

"With advancements in technology, including artificial intelligence, our border operations along the Malaysia-Thailand border, particularly in Perlis, have reached new levels. We're moving beyond solely relying on physical patrols by police and PGA officers.

"This system, currently under preparation at one of the checkpoints along the Malaysia-Thailand security route in Chuping, will employ drone technology for border surveillance. Any breaches detected will be immediately reported to the PGA personnel. The trial, expected mid-month, will use drone technology from Turkiye," he said at his office at the Perlis Police Contingent Headquarters.

Muhammad added that each PGA battalion has been equipped with a drone, operated by the PGA's intelligence branch, to support field personnel.

"This development demonstrates how drones can assist in addressing border intrusions and smuggling, enhancing the efforts of our officers along Perlis's international border. Drones have aided in intercepting illegal immigrants and seizing ketum and drugs," he added.

He also said that PGA drones have occasionally intercepted smuggler-operated drones attempting to cross Perlis airspace along the Malaysia-Thailand border in Chuping.

"We've encountered incidents where amateur drones, likely operated by individuals from Thailand, have been detected attempting to breach national airspace. It's unclear whether these drones aim to deliver contraband or simply monitor PGA activities along this border security route," he added.

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