Thai police have expressed full support for Malaysia’s plan to construct a security wall along the Malaysia-Thailand border in Kelantan, calling it an effective measure to curb cross-border crime.
Major General Prayong Kotsakha, Chief of Narathiwat Provincial Police, said the wall would help restrict smuggling and illegal crossings that frequently occur along the shared border. “Thai police, especially in Narathiwat, fully support the implementation of this security wall as it provides benefits to both countries in terms of public safety and welfare,” he told Malaysian media through a local interpreter.
He added, “This initiative can help combat the smuggling of weapons, drugs, and controlled goods that often take place along the border.” Prayong noted that the wall would also enhance authorities’ ability to detect and prevent illegal cross-border activities compared with current conditions.
Acknowledging sensitivities among local communities, Prayong admitted that residents on both sides of the border may react differently to the construction, given the close familial ties that exist across the frontier. “We want border residents to respect the law and use proper channels when crossing between the two countries,” he said.
The Narathiwat police chief also recognised that certain routes previously used by locals could be exploited by criminals from either Thailand or Malaysia. “We know Malaysian authorities, particularly in Kelantan, place great emphasis on security when closing illegal crossings that were previously used by residents,” he added.
Cross-border police cooperation is set to continue through regular joint meetings, ensuring that the wall’s construction and management do not harm relations with local communities.
On 21 October, Bernama reported that the Malaysian government approved a RM1.5 billion allocation for the construction of the border security wall. Kelantan Police Chief Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mamat said the wall will extend along the border from Tumpat to Tanah Merah.
