An additional RM1 billion federal allocation announced by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim for infrastructure upgrades along Sarawak and Sabah borders would contribute towards mitigating security risks in areas that will neighbour Indonesia's planned new capital, Nusantara, in Kalimantan.
Warisan Women chief Norazlinah Arif, who welcomed Anwar's announcement, said issues surrounding border security rank top among concerns faced by locals in Sabah and Sarawak.
The Kunak assemblyperson noted that Indonesia's ongoing development of its new capital city at a reported cost of some RM135 billion, aside from boosting economic activities in Sabah and Sarawak, opens up various socio-economic threats to the people.
"There are concerns about a negative impact on the locals from smuggling activities, human trafficking and other threats commonly associated with a fast-growing economy.
"Therefore, an efficient and effective border infrastructure as a result of the RM1 billion upgrading allocation can contribute to mitigating the risks," she said in a statement today.
Last Friday, Anwar, who is also finance minister, announced that the ministry has given preliminary approval for an additional allocation of RM1 billion for the commencement of work to upgrade the infrastructure and increase the capability of the Customs, Immigration, Quarantine and Security (CIQS) Complex at Sarawak and Sabah borders.
He said the approval was given following his recent discussion with Indonesian President Joko Widodo regarding the relocation of Indonesia’s capital to Nusantara, Kalimantan - which shares a border with Sabah and Sarawak.
On the move towards recognising Sabah and Sarawak as regions, which has yet to be gazetted, Norazlinah said it would strengthen the perception and support of the people in both states towards the federal government's new Malaysia Madani agenda.
Meanwhile, Norazlinah also urged the government to focus on issues of frequent intrusions into Malaysian waters around the South China Sea, affecting the socio-economy of people in Sabah and Sarawak.
"More than 89 Chinese warships had reportedly entered Sabah and Sarawak waters in recent years with next to no security or proactive measures from the defence ministry or the foreign ministry.
"This has negatively impacted the local oil and gas industry, fisheries industry as well as the tourism industry in Sabah and Sarawak," she said. - Mkini
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