PORT KLANG: Increased patrols and monitoring along the Malaysia-Thailand border at Sungai Golok have yielded positive results, with a significant reduction in illegal border crossings since stricter enforcement measures were introduced.
Federal Internal Security and Public Order director Datuk Seri Azmi Abu Kassim said the yields had been seen ever since the enforcement to prevent people from exploiting illegal routes at the border was implemented earlier this month.
"Based on observations conducted along Sungai Golok, cross-border activities have noticeably decreased following the enforcement of the law.
"However, we are constantly strengthening patrols and monitoring to deter anyone from changing tactics or finding new ways to cross illegally."
Azmi earlier saw the handing over of the marine police commander duties from Senior Assistant Commissioner Norzaid Muhammad Said, who is up for mandatory retirement starting tomorrow after almost 39 years of service.
Succeeding Norzaid is Senior Assistant Commissioner Shamsol Kassim, who served as the marine police deputy commander (general policing/strategic/investigation).
Azmi said several strategies were being planned to enhance enforcement at the borders.
"There are a few measures in the pipeline, which will be implemented immediately to ensure that any attempts at illegal crossings are completely thwarted.
"Some attempts to cross illegally have been successfully stopped, and overall, such activities have shown a clear decrease compared to before."
The prohibition on the use of illegal routes along Sungai Golok came into effect on Dec 1 where those caught crossing or using illegal entry points along the Malaysia-Thailand border will face prosecution under Section 5(2) of the Immigration Act, which carries a fine of up to RM10,000 upon conviction.