Advanced security tech useless without staff integrity: Ex-top cop

Even the most sophisticated security technology is rendered useless if the personnel handling it lack integrity, warned Tan Sri Ayob Khan, former Deputy Inspector-General of Police. He pointed out that in certain situations, officers may not pay adequate attention when using scanner machines, inadvertently allowing prohibited items to bypass security checks. Khan believes recent incidents are not isolated and that many illicit items may have already slipped through multiple security layers.

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I am confident that the cases that have occurred recently are not isolated; it is not impossible that many have already slipped through because they can pass through many security checks.

He stressed that integrity and potential negligence among staff must be taken seriously, as technology is only effective when operated correctly. Khan shared personal experiences of witnessing officers not fully focusing on scanner displays during inspections. "I have reprimanded such issues before. If I, as a civilian, notice such a situation, I question why the inspection isn't being done properly," he stated, clarifying that while not all officers are negligent, he has observed and addressed such lapses.

Ayob Khan also addressed the significant challenges Malaysia faces in controlling its borders due to its geography, surrounded by waters including the South China Sea and the Strait of Malacca. However, he argued that geography should not excuse weaknesses in border control. Instead, enforcement approaches must be strengthened through a combination of assets, technology, integrity, and supervision. "We cannot deploy soldiers and police at every meter to guard the border; that's illogical," he said.

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I have reprimanded such issues before. If I, as a civilian, notice such a situation, I question why the inspection isn't being done properly.

He emphasized the need for a comprehensive strategy. "So, we must be prepared to assist the police and military. Integrity is also crucial. A combination of assets, integrity, supervision, and firmness will, God willing, make our sea and land borders more robust," he added. This discussion follows recent attention on airport security control, including the arrest of a Malaysian pilot in Indonesia with a significant quantity of MDMA, prompting the Malaysian government to order a comprehensive security improvement plan for Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA).

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So, we must be prepared to assist the police and military. Integrity is also crucial. A combination of assets, integrity, supervision, and firmness will, God willing, make our sea and land borders more robust.