Malaysia-Saudi Arabia Strengthen Security Cooperation Through SMCC - Saifuddin Nasution

PUTRAJAYA, May 29 (Bernama) -- Malaysia and Saudi Arabia’s strategic cooperation in security and enforcement continues to show positive progress through multiple initiatives under the Saudi-Malaysia Coordination Council (SMCC), said Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.

In a Facebook post today, Saifuddin said the progress was among matters discussed during his meeting with Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud while performing the haj pilgrimage this year.

“The SMCC serves as the main platform for coordinating various collaborative initiatives. Through the council, Malaysia and Saudi Arabia have finalised seven key areas of cooperation covering border security, counter-terrorism, cyber security, immigration, forensics, search and rescue operations, and efforts to combat narcotics crime,” he said.

Saifuddin said he also welcomed the progress made through the Committee of Experts, which has reached an agreement to implement 10 strategic initiatives involving various security and enforcement agencies of both countries.

“This development reflects the determination of Malaysia and Saudi Arabia to strengthen the sharing of expertise, exchange of intelligence information and enforcement cooperation in facing increasingly complex cross-border security challenges,” he said.

On Dec 21 last year, the committee reached a joint agreement on a comprehensive annual action plan covering strategic information sharing, coordination of specialised training modules, and regular monitoring through technical committee meetings.

Meanwhile, Saifuddin said that during the discussions, the Crown Prince also expressed appreciation for the international leadership role of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, particularly in promoting dialogue, diplomacy and understanding to ease conflicts and maintain global peace.

“Insya-Allah, the strong friendship between Malaysia and Saudi Arabia will continue to be strengthened for the security, stability and well-being of both nations,” he added.

-- BERNAMA