Sarawak association backs proposal to employ veterans for national border security agency

SIBU (Oct 17): The Malaysian Armed Forces Veterans Association (PVATM) Sarawak supports a proposal to employ Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) veterans for the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (MCBA).

PVATM Sarawak president Jimbau Galau said Ketereh member of parliament Datuk Khlir Mohd Nor’s proposal is sound as many ATM veterans, especially those who are younger, have the skills to qualify for the job.

He opined the experience of such veterans could help to strengthen border security.

“We fully support Datuk Khlir’s statement. Many retired ATM veterans are still capable of serving and have the expertise required by agencies like MCBA,” he said when contacted today.

Jimbau said that this initiative would not only help veterans but also be an important boost to national security.

He called on the government to look after the welfare of ATM veterans, especially in ensuring career opportunities after their term of service ends.

“Their involvement in MCBA would not only open job opportunities but also ensure that their experience and expertise continue to benefit the country,” he added.

Yesterday, Datuk Khlir had presented the proposal during the Question-and-Answer session in the Dewan Rakyat.

He had originally asked Home Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail on the status of MCBA operations and when it would be fully functional.

The Malaysia Border Control and Protection Agency Bill 2024 was passed in the Dewan Rakyat last July for the purpose of forming the agency, which is to take over the functions of the Immigration Department and Customs Department at the country’s border entry points.