AKPS Boosts Readiness At Entry Points Ahead Of ASEAN Summit
By Mohd Ashraf Syafiq Mazlan
PUTRAJAYA, May 19 (Bernama) -- The Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) is stepping up readiness at all major entry points into the country ahead of the 46th ASEAN Summit next week to ensure smooth arrival procedures for delegates and maintain national security.
Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminals 1 and 2 and the Bunga Raya Complex in Sepang are among the entry points expecting the arrival of heads of state and foreign delegates for the summit.
Acting AKPS director-general Datuk Sazali Mohamad said the agency is implementing a series of strategic measures to ensure a smooth process for all foreign delegates entering the country.
He said designated protocol lanes will be provided in collaboration with Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) to expedite clearance for delegates, sparing them from having to queue in normal lanes, particularly at main entry points such as KLIA.
'AKPS is also strengthening collaboration with key stakeholders involved in the ASEAN Summit, including the Foreign Ministry, the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), MAHB and AKPS's core agencies – the Immigration Department and the Ministry of Health,' he told Bernama.
He added that such collaboration is crucial in enabling AKPS to conduct preliminary checks and assessments before delegates arrive at the country's entry points.
Sazali said the extension of Autogate usage to passport holders from ASEAN member states for international departures will also help expedite immigration clearance.
'In addition, inspections are being enhanced through the provision of dedicated VVIP counters at the Bunga Raya Complex and a special VIP Lounge to welcome dignitaries,' he said.
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