The Kelantan state government in Malaysia has formally submitted a proposal to the Ministry of Home Affairs (KDN) seeking approval to install biometric CCTV systems along the state’s border with Thailand. The initiative is aimed at curbing cross-border criminal activity—particularly the trafficking of drugs, which has been identified as the region’s most pressing security concern.
According to officials, the proposal targets key transit areas along the Kelantan-Thailand boundary, with a focus on Sungai Golok and the Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and Security (ICQS) Complex in Rantau Panjang. The border region, which includes extensive land and riverine routes, has historically been vulnerable to smuggling, illegal immigration, and human trafficking. The Kelantan government emphasized that the proposed biometric systems would enable real-time identification of individuals using facial recognition and other biometric markers, thereby enhancing surveillance and enforcement capabilities.
In addition to CCTV systems, the proposal includes plans to deploy biometric surveillance drones and install scanners or detection systems at the ICQS Complex. These measures are designed to fill critical gaps in current border infrastructure, which lacks sufficient monitoring tools at main entry points following the closure of informal border crossings.
Government officials also highlighted social concerns linked to the rise in drug-related crime, including the online sale of illicit substances and vape products among school-aged youth. As part of the broader proposal, the Kelantan government is calling for public awareness campaigns and greater coordination across agencies to combat these emerging threats.
The initiative is under active review by the Home Ministry, which will collaborate with federal agencies to evaluate technical specifications and deployment logistics. Funding and resource allocation are expected to be critical factors, as similar proposals in the past have stalled due to financial and infrastructural constraints. Officials have stressed the need for federal support to ensure the feasibility of the plan.
Kelantan’s biometric surveillance proposal forms part of Malaysia’s larger strategy to modernize border control operations. It lines up with national efforts such as the planned Automatic Biometric Identification System (ABIS), which is expected to launch by 2026, and the ongoing development of the National Border Control System (NBCS).
Authorities have also signaled the importance of cross-border cooperation with Thai counterparts and international organizations to ensure cohesive enforcement across shared boundaries.
Source: Bernama
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April 23, 2025 – by the ID Tech Editorial Team
