Malaysia Launches Data-driven Index To Strengthen Border Security Readiness

PUTRAJAYA, July 16 (Bernama) -- The National Border Security Index (IKSN), an annual benchmark to assess the security of Malaysia’s borders, was officially launched today, said Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.

Developed by the Malaysian Institute of Public Safety (IPSOM) in collaboration with Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), the index provides a comprehensive, data-driven evaluation of the performance, effectiveness and readiness of the country’s border enforcement agencies.

“What makes this index unique is that it draws on credible data from 31 agencies responsible for border security, not just the police and immigration,” Saifuddin told reporters after the Home Ministry’s monthly assembly here today.

Also present were Home Ministry Secretary-General Datuk Awang Alik Jeman and Deputy Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay.

Saifuddin said the system operates on a centralised cloud platform, allowing agencies to submit data twice a year based on 58 specific indicators, with the aggregated data forming the basis of the IKSN’s annual assessment.

The index uses a five-tier scoring scale to rate security levels, with a score of 0.0 - 1.0 indicating it is Very Safe, 1.1 - 2.0 (Safe), 2.1 - 3.0 (Moderately Safe), 3.1 - 4.0 (Less Safe) and 4.1 - 5.0 (Unsafe).

To date, 12 cross-border threats have been identified under the index, including illegal immigration, human trafficking, drug and firearms smuggling and kidnapping for ransom (KFR).

“Kidnapping for ransom and sea robbery currently score 0.00, indicating very high security, while firearms smuggling is at 0.22, still within the ‘Very Safe’ range,” he said.

Saifuddin added that the IKSN would support more strategic decision-making for asset and personnel deployment, identifying high-risk zones and strengthening annual budget justifications for border security.

“With reliable data, we can determine where to position resources, what manpower is needed and which agencies should be tasked. This is critical when submitting annual budget proposals to the Finance or Economy Ministries,” he noted.

He reiterated that Malaysia’s border security remains stable, a key factor for national resilience and investor confidence.

-- BERNAMA