{
  "id": 8412898,
  "title": "RTS Link: Border security preparations stepped up ahead of January launch",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/19/rts-link-border-security-preparations-stepped-up-ahead-of-january",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-19T07:58:11.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2026/09/1536105/rts-link-border-security-preparations-stepped-ahead-january-launch"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "In a push to enhance border security, the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (MCBA) is ramping up readiness and inspection capabilities in the lead-up to the January launch of the Johor Baru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link, according to Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain, MCBA director-general. Zain emphasized that while technology plays a critical role in support enforcement, it cannot be the sole answer to security threats at Malaysia's entry points. Zain stressed the importance of a combined approach, highlighting the significance of training and operational simulations. MCBA will offer guidance to operators on suitable technologies to bolster security and reduce potential risks. Regarding artificial intelligence (AI), Zain noted that the technology requires a learning phase, particularly machine learning, before it can mature. Currently, MCBA trainees are undergoing a three-month training program at the Segamat Police Training Centre, with 400 individuals expected to complete their training by the end of September. By October, they will be deployed to the RTS Link, with two months of dry runs planned to ensure full preparedness for January.",
  "summary": "JOHOR BARU: The Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (MCBA) is stepping up security readiness and border inspection capabilities ahead of the launch of the Johor Baru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link in January next year.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Malay Mail",
        "title": "AKPS steps up border security readiness ahead Johor Bahru‑Singapore RTS Link launch in January",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/19/akps-steps-up-border-security-readiness-ahead-johor-bahru-singapore",
        "published": "2026-09-19T07:54:34.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}