Malaysia Developing AI-Powered Border Command Centre to Strengthen Security
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is developing a centralized border monitoring command center powered by artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance surveillance, improve real-time information sharing, and strengthen coordination among enforcement agencies, Deputy Home Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Shamsul Anuar Nasarah said.
The proposed National Border Control System will integrate surveillance technologies and enable agencies to share information in real time to detect suspicious movements, particularly in high-risk border areas.
“The system is being developed based on research by the Malaysian Civil Defence and Security Institute, with plans to integrate technologies such as smart video surveillance, drones, sensors, data analytics, and a joint operations control center,” he told the Dewan Rakyat on Monday.
He was responding to Rushdan Rusmi (PN-Padang Besar), who asked about measures to curb the use of illegal routes along the Perlis border for human trafficking, drug smuggling, and other contraband activities.
Shamsul Anuar said the initiative formed part of the government’s broader efforts to strengthen national border security under the Home Ministry’s Border Security Control Master Plan 2026–2030, which was launched on Jan 8.
The plan aims to improve early threat detection, information sharing, and operational coordination among enforcement agencies responsible for securing Malaysia’s land and maritime borders.
He said border security operations involved several agencies, including the Royal Malaysia Police, the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency, the Immigration Department, the Customs Department, and the Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services Department.
Joint operations also involved the armed forces and other relevant agencies to strengthen surveillance in strategic locations and disrupt smuggling activities.
Beyond intercepting illegal movements, the government was also targeting the wider networks behind cross-border crimes, including recruiters and financial channels used to facilitate illegal activities, he added.
In a supplementary question, Rushdan asked whether the government planned to establish a centralized command center integrating AI, drones, sensors, and surveillance cameras at official entry points and high-risk locations.
Shamsul Anuar said the proposed system would allow enforcement agencies to analyse suspicious movements more effectively and coordinate responses in a timely manner.
He added that several technology and infrastructure initiatives, including surveillance cameras, tactical drones, radar systems, and control facilities, were being implemented under the 13th Malaysia Plan.
The integrated approach is expected to strengthen inter-agency cooperation and improve Malaysia’s ability to detect and respond to security threats along its borders.