Nation's Main Entry Points To Be Equipped With New, More Advanced Scanners

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 26 (Bernama) -- The country’s main entry points will soon be equipped with new and more advanced scanners to ensure inspection processes can be carried out swiftly and effectively, thereby combating smuggling activities.

Deputy Home Minister Datuk Seri Dr Shamsul Anuar Nasarah said the government is conducting a comprehensive assessment of the scanners currently in use, as some have reached their operational lifespan and need to be replaced.

He said this includes container cargo scanners, passenger baggage scanners and body scanners, which are now being progressively taken over by the Malaysian Border Protection and Control Agency (AKPS) from the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM).

“A comprehensive assessment process is under way, not only from a technical standpoint but also involving long-term maintenance costs, operational effectiveness, technical capabilities and after-sales support,” he said during the question-and-answer session in the Dewan Rakyat today.

He was responding to a question from Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari (PH-Sungai Petani), who asked about improvements in customs inspection controls for baggage at all airports, as well as periodic monitoring to ensure the efficiency of inspection officers so that smuggling issues can be effectively prevented.

Shamsul Anuar said the process also considers the latest technologies available in the international market, such as high-energy scanners for large containers developed by the United States, high-evolution CT Scan (computed tomography) systems for passenger baggage from Germany and portable scanners used at land entry points produced by China.

“In addition, manufacturers from the United Kingdom and Japan also have expertise in radiation detection technology. A thorough study of technologies from these countries will help the government ensure that the procurement of scanners truly provides the best value to the nation,” he said.

-- BERNAMA