3 days ago
Brunei sees AI as key to streamlining Asean immigration services
FILE PHOTO: The Brunei Kuala Lurah immigration checkpoint in 2011. - Adeline Ngui/THE STAR
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: Artificial intelligence (AI) holds great promise in transforming immigration services whether in streamlining visa applications, detecting irregularities, strengthening border surveillance, or enabling data-driven decisions, Minister of Home Affairs Datuk Seri Setia Ahmaddin Abdul Rahman said.
However, pursuing such advancements, the human-centric aspect of immigration empathy, fairness and protection of rights must never be overlooked, he said.
The minister made these comments at the opening ceremony of the 28th Asean Directors-General of Immigration Departments and Heads of Consular Affairs Divisions of The Ministries of Foreign Affairs (28th DGICM) and Its Related Meetings on Wednesday (Aug 13) hosted in Brunei Darussalam.
He said the DGICM serves as a crucial platform to strengthen cooperation and dialogue among Asean member states on immigration and consular matters. 'It plays a vital role in enhancing the facilitation of intra-Asean travel, addressing cross-border challenges and advancing collaborative efforts on regional mobility, border management and the development of immigration policies.'
The minister noted that Asean DGICM member states remain steadfast in their collective commitment to addressing increasingly complex and evolving challenges that impact border security at national, regional and international levels.
He highlighted, 'This year's meeting, will also deliberate new and forward-looking initiatives, including the proposed study on the feasibility of providing visa exemption facilities for specified categories of travellers, and the further development of the Asean Immigration Training Centre.'
He said, 'These discussions are timely and strategic as we continue to seek practical solutions to improve mobility while ensuring security.'
He also noted that DGICM's engagement with dialogue partners has grown meaningfully.
'Since the formalisation of dialogue with the Plus Three countries China, Japan, and the Republic of Korea in 2022, we now mark the fourth year of our growing collaboration.'
He shared that 'this year also marks the 20th DGICM +Australia Consultation. The progress achieved, especially in capacity building and knowledge exchange, is commendable. I applaud the continued commitment and shared efforts from all our partners.
'As we navigate an increasingly interconnected world shaped by rapid digital transformation and emerging global threats, the field of immigration management must also evolve. The DGICM plays an integral role in supporting the Asean Community Vision through enhanced cooperation and innovation,' the minister said. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
