ASEANAPOL Strengthens Regional Frontline Response to Foreign-Linked Transnational Crime in Malaysia

ASEANAPOL Strengthens Regional Frontline Response to Foreign-Linked Transnational Crime in Malaysia

On 10 February 2026, the ASEANAPOL Secretariat played an active role in advancing regional responses to foreign-linked transnational crime during a high-level workshop organised by the Global Initiative against Transnational Organized Crime (GITOC) in Kuala Lumpur.

The workshop, titled “Developing an Effective Response to Foreign-Linked Crime in Malaysia,” brought together senior law-enforcement practitioners, prosecutors, and legal experts to address the evolving threat posed by cross-border criminal networks operating in the region. ASEANAPOL was represented by the Director of Police Services, Senior Superintendent Huntal Tambunan, and Deputy Superintendent of Police Abdul Hamid Abdul Hashim, Police Services Officer I.

During the engagement, ASEANAPOL underscored its strategic mandate as a regional coordination hub, facilitating cross-border intelligence sharing, operational alignment, and joint investigative mechanisms among ASEAN Member Police Forces. Discussions focused on real-world case studies involving narcotics trafficking, trafficking in persons, and other foreign-linked transnational crimes, with particular emphasis on operational disruptions and investigative outcomes.

ASEANAPOL contributed practical perspectives on strengthening frontline enforcement capabilities, reinforcing legal and regulatory frameworks, and enhancing interoperability between national agencies. These inputs directly supported the development of an action-oriented toolkit aimed at improving detection, investigation, and disruption of transnational criminal activities.

The workshop concluded with a shared commitment to sustain momentum through continuous capacity building, adaptive legal frameworks, and closer regional cooperation. ASEANAPOL reaffirmed its readiness to work with national authorities and international partners to deliver tangible, results-driven action against transnational organised crime across Southeast Asia.