KOTA BARU, Nov 30 — An electronic fence will be installed along the Malaysia-Thai border in Kelantan to curb smuggling, said Home Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

He said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak had agreed in principle on the installation of the electronic fence.

The project would involve 121km of river boundary and 20km of land boundary from Pengkalan Kubor, Tumpat until Jeli, he told reporters after launching the 'United in Combating Crime' carnival organised by the Royal Malaysia Police at the Rural Transformation Centre (RTC), Tunjong here today.

“We will go into details on the building of the fence when the Finance Ministry has finalised on the procurement and payment methods because it involves a high cost,” he said.

Ahmad Zahid said his ministry would get the cooperation of the Kelantan state government because the fence would involve land belonging to the state government and local residents.

He said the construction of the fence was important to eradicate smuggling activities including drug, firearm and human trafficking.

Asked on the cost of the project, he said the Finance Ministry would make the announcement. The project was expected to be completed in 36 months. — Bernama