Malaysia, Thailand step up cooperation on border security, cross-border crime

Kota Bharu, August 12 — Malaysia and Thailand are intensifying their collaboration on border security and cross-border crime threats, according to Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail. The two nations are utilizing government-to-government (G2G) and police-to-police (P2P) platforms to address these concerns.

The G2G cooperation is carried out by the Malaysia-Thailand Border Security Management Committee, which meets twice annually. Meanwhile, the P2P collaboration includes states that share a border with Thailand, namely Perlis, Kedah, and Kelantan. Saifuddin highlighted that this police cooperation typically encompasses three key elements: intelligence sharing, capacity building, and joint operations if necessary.

Expressing his thoughts to reporters following a visit to the family of slain Corporal Mohamad Nur Hafiz Rahim, who died from an electric shock in Beaufort, Sabah, last Thursday, Saifuddin emphasized the sensitivity of the border security issue. He noted that it encompasses the sovereignty of both countries, the movement of people, and cross-border crime elements. All these factors are closely monitored.

Saifuddin also mentioned that discussions on border security were held during the recent official meeting with his Thai counterpart. This included a visit by Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul to Malaysia. He stressed that managing the border area is a delicate task due to its implications for national sovereignty, people movement, and cross-border crime. The two nations handle these matters through established platforms and forums, maintaining a professional approach as neighboring countries.