The government will step up security screening at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), including 100% baggage inspections and full-body pat-down checks for passengers travelling on international flights classified as high risk, Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said.
Speaking in the Dewan Rakyat on Tuesday, Saifuddin said the risk-based targeted screening was among 17 recommendations approved to strengthen security controls, screening and risk management at KLIA and other international entry points. The measures are being implemented in three phases, beginning with short-term actions over the first six months from August.
“For outbound flights from KLIA, we are conducting physical checks from head to toe on passengers as well as 100% baggage checks,” he said, adding that the measures apply to destinations classified as high risk based on intelligence and recorded cases.
He cited Indonesia and several other destinations where smuggling incidents have occurred more frequently as examples of routes subject to tighter screening.
The security overhaul followed scrutiny of airport controls after a Malaysian airline pilot was arrested in Indonesia in July in connection with an alleged attempt to smuggle about 25kg of drugs after departing from KLIA. The government subsequently ordered the Home and Transport ministries to prepare a comprehensive plan covering airport operations, equipment and manpower.
Saifuddin said the government is also reviewing access controls for personnel working in restricted airport areas.
Security access cards issued following government vetting are currently valid for five years, but the government is proposing to shorten the validity period to two years before renewal is required.
Access passes issued by Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd and the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia will similarly be subjected to tighter controls.
Separately, the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency is expected to receive access to Malaysia Airports’ KLIA CCTV control room as part of efforts to improve coordination and surveillance. KLIA Terminals 1 and 2 have more than 5,000 CCTV cameras, according to Saifuddin.
The broader 17-point security plan also includes tighter vetting of airport personnel, enhanced drug screening for aviation workers, a stronger physical security presence and improved information sharing between agencies.
Saifuddin said the government would assess the effectiveness of the current short-term measures before moving to the second phase of implementation.
