PUTRAJAYA, July 1 — The Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) has proposed the procurement of Glock firearms for its personnel, citing the weapon’s durability and low maintenance costs.
AKPS director-general Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain said the government has given its in-principle approval to supply the agency with firearms to facilitate operations and ensure safety during duty.
“We want something easy to maintain and without high upkeep costs. The weapon we typically use is the Glock; it’s low maintenance and durable. That’s what we’re asking for,” he told reporters after AKPS’s monthly assembly here today.
Earlier, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had approved an allocation of RM22 million to equip AKPS with suitable firearms and equipment.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the Prime Minister gave the green light after an AKPS commander’s vehicle came under fire in Bukit Kayu Hitam, Kedah, in February.
In the Feb 25 attack, a Proton X70 driven by Mohd Nasaruddin M Nasir, now AKPS deputy director-general (Operations), was shot at around 5.40 am along the slip road near Masjid Muhajirin, roughly a kilometre from the Malaysia-Thailand border.
In his address, Mohd Shuhaily said AKPS is now equipping its officers and personnel with fresh external expertise to ensure they remain sharp and competent.
“This is because the public expects to see a highly capable team standing guard at the nation’s entry points, unwavering, dignified and backed by strong discipline and know-how,” he said.
He also stressed that integrity is non-negotiable within AKPS, warning that corruption and misconduct will not be tolerated.
“We must draw a firm line against the culture of corruption and wrongdoing at our entry points. Since AKPS began operations, in less than a year, we have terminated five officers, while 15 others are undergoing disciplinary proceedings, and 50 more are under active investigation,” he revealed. — Bernama
