PADANG BESAR, MALAYSIA April 11, 2026 — Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail today conducted a working visit and direct monitoring of the Malaysia-Thailand border to assess the situation and readiness of security forces on the ground.
The visit was made in response to the ongoing global energy crisis and a Cabinet decision requesting the Ministry of Home Affairs (KDN) to assist in deploying Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) personnel at petrol stations in border areas.
According to Saifuddin, the primary responsibility for regulating fuel supply lies with the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN). However, KDN through PDRM has been asked to strengthen control at the border because the comprehensive presence of police is one of the most effective measures to prevent smuggling activities.
“I began the monitoring from the air, flying over several strategic locations such as Durian Burung, Bukit Kayu Hitam, and up to Padang Besar. From above, we could see the bigger picture, including hot routes, suspicious movements, and the real challenges faced by personnel on the ground,” he said in a shared statement.
He then descended to the General Operations Force (PGA) Control Post at Jalan Kesban to inspect ground-level operations, including personally viewing several locations that were previously hotspots for smuggling but have now been better managed.
Saifuddin emphasised that, as of today, the country’s fuel supply remains sufficient. At the same time, the government has a responsibility to ensure there is no leakage or pilferage.
“This is indeed our ongoing effort at KDN. And in the current increasingly challenging geopolitical situation, we will continue to double our efforts to ensure the country’s borders remain secure and the interests of the people are protected,” he added.
The Royal Malaysia Police will be immediately deployed to more than 80 petrol stations in border areas to strengthen monitoring and prevent the smuggling of fuel, which has been increasing due to price differences in the region.
The involvement of police at these border petrol stations is temporary and will be reviewed once the global energy crisis subsides, Saifuddin said.
This visit demonstrates the government’s commitment to addressing border security issues and safeguarding the nation’s fuel supply from any illegal activities that could harm the interests of the people.
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