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

Kota Bharu, Aug 12 — Malaysia and Thailand are enhancing their border security collaboration through government-to-government and police-to-police platforms, with a focus on addressing cross-border crime threats. Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail revealed that the government-to-government cooperation is managed through the Malaysia-Thailand Border Security Management Committee, which convenes twice a year.

The police-to-police cooperation, on the other hand, entails sharing intelligence, building capacities, and conducting joint operations when necessary. Speaking to reporters following a visit to the family of fallen Corporal Mohamad Nur Hafiz Rahim in Malaysia, Saifuddin Nasution emphasized that border security concerns, such as sovereignty, people movement, and cross-border crime, are a top priority.

He noted that these issues are discussed in official meetings with their Thai counterparts, particularly during Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul's visit to Malaysia. Saifuddin stressed that resolving border-related matters is best achieved through direct engagement on appropriate platforms rather than through media statements.