KUCHING: The Malaysian Third Infantry Brigade (3rd Brigade) recorded seizures of goods worth nearly RM1.7 million as of October 2026 through border security operations in Sarawak, as part of efforts to combat smuggling activities that threaten the state's security and economy.

Commander of the 3rd Brigade Brigadier General Zulkininie Yunus said the achievement was supported by surveillance equipment provided by the Sarawak Government to enhance the ability of personnel to monitor movements along the border.

"As of October 2026, we have seized goods worth nearly RM1.7 million and handed them over to the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), Malaysian Immigration Department (JIM) and Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM) to address the matter," he said.

He said this during a press conference after leading a 3rd Brigade delegation on a courtesy call on Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg at the Satria Pertiwi Complex on Wednesday.

According to him, the surveillance equipment has been particularly useful in monitoring operations at 18 border posts in Sarawak and five posts on the Indonesian side, especially in detecting smuggling activities along routes identified as high-risk areas.

He said border security operations are conducted across two sectors, with personnel deployed at control posts and on patrols along strategic routes to curb the smuggling of drugs, weapons and other goods that could undermine the state's security and economy.

"The equipment is extremely useful in carrying out our duties and operations, especially in surveillance activities along the border," he said.

He explained that operational measures include deportations, seizures and arrests, while confiscated goods are handed over to the relevant enforcement agencies for further action.

Meanwhile, continuous training is being conducted to improve personnel's familiarity with operational routes and areas, further strengthening the brigade's ability to detect and intercept those involved in smuggling activities.

Brigadier General Zulkininie also emphasised the importance of fully utilising the intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) equipment provided by the Sarawak Government to improve the effectiveness of border security operations.

Also present were Sarawak Security and Enforcement Unit (UKPS) Director Datu Abdul Wahab Rahim and members of the 3rd Brigade delegation. -UKASnews

Prepared By: Ezzah Syafiqah
Photo: Shahril Haqim
Translator: Nerissa Sia