PUTRAJAYA: The Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency is determined to cultivate a new work culture based on dignity, discipline, and professionalism, says its director-general Comm Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain (pic).
Comm Mohd Shuhaily said he wants people to respect the agency, not out of fear, but because they know its officers are firm and act with integrity.
Marking its first year anniversary on Friday (Oct 17), the director-general admitted the agency’s journey has not been easy.
It involved uniting about 6,215 officers from various agencies, including the Immigration Department, Customs Department, Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services Department (Maqis) and the Wildlife and National Parks Department (Perhilitan), under one roof.
“This process is like a corporate merger. Some were hesitant, while others are still adjusting, but I am grateful that my team is strong and committed,” he told reporters after a town hall session with the agency’s officers.
He stressed that managing the cultural and operational differences has been the most difficult part of his first 100 days.
“Each agency comes with its own doctrine, discipline level and working culture. I need to design a comprehensive training programme that unifies our officers and instils the ‘soul of the agency’,” he said, noting that differences in training length and disciplinary emphasis are major hurdles.
The director-general said the current priority is to instil the “agency spirit” so that every member understands the agency’s goals and their true role in protecting the nation’s borders.
“I want the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency to be a dignified agency. Our motto, ‘United at the border, respected on the global stage,’ reflects our commitment,” he said, adding that he wants people flying into Malaysia to feel a similar apprehension when crossing Immigration and Customs lines as they do when entering Australia.
Comm Mohd Shuhaily aims to resolve the human resource challenges and finalise a new service scheme within two years. He stressed that a successful merger is vital for long-term institutional improvement, which would ensure he leaves behind a role “not burdened by unresolved issues.”
He reaffirmed his commitment to leaving a strong legacy, saying, “My only wish is for the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency to be remembered as a respected agency.”
