RM1bil Sabah-Sarawak allocation can help reduce security risks, says rep

The CIQS complex and staff quarters under construction in Sabah’s Kalabakan district. (Bernama pic)

PETALING JAYA: The RM1 billion allocation to upgrade border infrastructure in Sabah and Sarawak can help reduce the smuggling of goods and human trafficking if used wisely, a Sabah assemblyman said.

Kunak assemblyman Norazlinah Arif said although the development of Indonesia’s new capital in Kalimantan, Nusantara, could stimulate the economies of Malaysia’s Borneo states, it could also bring about social and national security risks.

“Smuggling, human trafficking and various other threats that come with rapid economic development risk having a negative impact on the local community.

“Efficient and effective infrastructure (built) from the RM1 billion allocation can contribute to controlling the risk,” she said in a statement today.

Norazlinah Arif.

On Friday, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said he had given preliminary approval for an additional allocation of RM1 billion to upgrade infrastructure and increase the capability of the customs, immigration, quarantine and security (CIQS) complex at the Sabah and Sarawak borders.

Norazlinah welcomed the move, saying it was proof of the unity government’s commitment to ensuring equal social, economic, and infrastructural access to all citizens.

She said the federal government must also focus efforts on deterring the “increasingly frequent” foreign encroachments on Sabah and Sarawak’s coasts.

“In recent years, Chinese warships have reportedly entered the waters of Sabah and Sarawak more than 89 times, with almost no proactive action from the defence or foreign affairs ministries,” she said.

“On more than one occasion, Chinese coast guard vessels encroached on Sabah’s Exclusive Economic Zone, threatening Petronas’ oil and gas operations there.” - FMT