DEPUTY Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi is calling for the immediate operation of the Malaysia Checkpoints and Border Agency, the single regulatory agency for the country’s borders, to safeguard national security and sovereignty.

He emphasised that the government consistently prioritises the welfare of Malaysians in all matters, including those related to the presence of refugees and asylum seekers, who are constantly monitored by the government.

“The country’s security cannot be compromised and manipulated by any party.

“I urge all government entities to implement coordination and adaptation to the existing legal mechanism so that it continues to be complied with by everyone in the country,” he posted on Facebook today.

The matter is among the essence of the meeting of the high-level committee on the management of refugees and asylum seekers chaired by him.

Zahid said the meeting was held, among others, to review decisions and update the implementation of work by ministries, departments and main agencies involved in the matter of refugees. – Bernama, January 16, 2024.