The government will review possible upgrades to scanning machines at airports nationwide to strengthen security and improve baggage screening, Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said today.
While existing scanners are functioning properly and can detect dangerous and prohibited items, Saifuddin said the government would consider newer screening technology as part of efforts to strengthen controls at the country’s main entry points.
“Are we going to remain static with the existing machines going forward? Certainly not,” he said at a press conference after the flag-off ceremony for the Star City FC Tour Convoy.
The review comes as airport security has faced scrutiny following several recent incidents involving Malaysians. Last week, a Malaysian pilot was detained after about 25 kilogrammes of MDMA-type drugs were seized at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Indonesia.
Saifuddin said baggage screening at Malaysian airports is handled by Aviation Security (AVSEC) personnel in line with international screening standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).
Beyond upgrading equipment, the government is also looking at expanding what airport screening covers. Saifuddin said current checks focus largely on weapons, while authorities are considering stronger measures to detect contraband, including drugs.
“This is one of the areas for improvement that we need to focus on, in line with the expertise of the officers conducting the screening,” he said.
The move is part of a wider review of security controls at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA). The Home Ministry and Transport Ministry have been instructed to prepare a comprehensive improvement plan covering operations, equipment and manpower.
Saifuddin said he and agencies under the Home Ministry would hold a special meeting tomorrow to examine the proposed measures.
The Cabinet has given both ministries two weeks to submit the plan following concerns over recent incidents at KLIA and their potential impact on Malaysia’s image and public confidence in airport security.
