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Look into Sarawak-Kalimantan border enforcement: Snowdan

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Datuk Snowdan Lawan

KUCHING: Assistant Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Snowdan Lawan feels that there is an urgent need for Malaysia and Indonesia to look into the enforcement approach at the Sarawak-Kalimantan border.

“During this (Covid-19) pandemic, we cannot let trespassers breach the border freely without going through proper safety procedures such as medical assurance papers and quarantine facilities for diseases carried by humans, animals or goods.

“Both Malaysia and Indonesia should take a look and revisit the enforcement agreement at the 500m buffer zone area,” he told New Sarawak Tribune when contacted yesterday.

Expressing a similar sentiment by Deputy Chief Minister Tan Sri James Jemut Masing regarding the issue, Snowdan agreed that Putrajaya should provide necessary funding and sufficient equipment, along with personnel, to secure the border.

“This is not only Sarawak’s border, but most importantly, it is Malaysia’s border.

“I also support Datuk Seri Wan Junaidi’s call for both countries to observe the 500m buffer zone along the border. It should be reinforced for a more effective and improved border security for the two countries.

“How much longer can we call it rat trails?

“Our surveillance is being concentrated at the main checkpoints in Badau, Lubok Antu, Tebedu-Entikong in Serian, Serikin and Biawak or Sematan in Lundu.

“We need to cover and investigate if the rat trails are also set up in other areas like Lachau and Rapak in Sri Aman Division or others, before it is too late,” he said, adding that rat trails which have been identified be converted into permanent checkpoints.

“(They should) be manned by security and immigration personnel from both sides with assistance from locals,” he added.

He further said that these trails should no longer be treated as “neighbourly visit routes”.

“Imagine the impact if trespassers travel illegally without medically quarantined.”

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