KOTA BARU: The state Customs Department will focus on the sea and the Golok river to curb cross-border smuggling activities through intensified enforcement following the demolition of illegal jetties along the Malaysia/Thai border recently.
State Customs director Wan Jamal Abdul Salam Wan Long said the daily patrols, carried out using Customs enforcement boats, would cover areas that are accessible by water.
“We will continue daily patrols along the sea and the Golok river to strengthen border enforcement,” he added.
Wan Jamal said Customs boats were deployed mainly in deeper waters, including areas such as Pengkalan Kubor in Tumpat, where marine patrols could be conducted effectively.
“For areas with sufficient water depth, our boats can operate, especially in coastal and riverine locations.
“However, in other border areas, enforcement activities are still carried out, although not necessarily by the marine unit,” he said.
He said Customs would also continue to work closely with other enforcement agencies to enhance border control and enforcement operations.
“This collaboration is important to ensure comprehensive coverage, both along the river and at other border points,” he said.
Wan Jamal said the ongoing measures reflected Customs’ commitment to tightening controls and preventing smuggling activities that could threaten national security and result in revenue losses.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
