19th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Transnational Crime Kicks Off in Melaka

MELAKA, Sept 8: The historic city of Melaka has become the regional focus this week as ASEAN ministers and senior officials responsible for security and combating cross-border crimes gather for the 19th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Transnational Crime (AMMTC) and its related meetings, taking place from September 8 to 12.

Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail inspected final preparations and attended a rehearsal ahead of the meeting’s official opening. The inspection covered logistics, security, accommodation, meeting facilities, media centers, and side event venues to ensure all arrangements are in place before delegates arrive from ASEAN member states, Timor-Leste, dialogue partners, and the ASEAN Secretariat.

The main sessions will be held at DoubleTree by Hilton Melaka, which will host the opening ceremony, plenary sessions, secretariat rooms, delegation spaces, bilateral meeting rooms, and media facilities. The Gala Dinner will be held at Encore Melaka.

Among the highlights on display during the preparation session were the Royal Malaysia Police’s Body Worn Camera, Volunteer Smartphone Patrol (VSP), and other law enforcement assets. The National Registration Department showcased the evolution of MyKad, while the Malaysian Prisons Department introduced its elite myPride products. These exhibitions reflect Malaysia’s commitment to integrating modern technology in strengthening security measures.

The Home Ministry said the event demonstrates Malaysia’s strong commitment to ensuring the AMMTC runs smoothly, not only from a technical and management standpoint but also in projecting the country’s image as a capable and prestigious host on the international stage.

Also present during the site visit were Datuk Awang Alik Jeman, Secretary-General of the Home Ministry; Dato’ Hj. Abdul Halim Abdul Rahman, Deputy Secretary-General (Security); and Datuk Haji Makhzan Mahyuddin, Deputy Secretary-General (Policy and Control), along with other senior ministry officials.