KUALA LUMPUR, March 4 - Four strategies are being implemented continuously to address migrant smuggling activities which threaten the security and sovereignty of the country.

Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail explained that the four strategies include strengthening existing laws, increasing cooperation between enforcement agencies at the domestic and international levels.

Among others, increasing capacity development in the aspect of preventing migrant smuggling as well as streamlining the coordination of control and monitoring mechanisms at the country's borders.

"Starting May 1, 2024, the government has established the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) with the aim of controlling and managing the country's borders in an integrated manner under one roof.

"This is important because when the function of border enforcement is placed under one agency, it can reduce bureaucratic red tape, able to mobilize potential resources and focus on monitoring criminal activities including smuggling of goods and firearms including human trafficking and migrant smuggling," he said.

He said this when answering a question from Sri Aman Member of Parliament, Datuk Seri Doris Sophia Brodi regarding human smuggling syndicates which are also the masterminds behind the entry of illegal immigrants, including steps to tighten existing laws and punishments for those involved.