Government ready to consider new KLIA baggage inspection technology - Saifuddin

The Malaysian government is open to adopting new baggage scanning technology at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) to enhance the detection of contraband, following recent smuggling incidents. The Minister of Home Affairs, Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, stated that current inspection focuses more on security threats like firearms, explosives, and sharp objects, rather than contraband.

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We have been briefed by the Director-General of the Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS), Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain, and the scanning machines used have the capability to detect all these things. However, from the scope of inspection, the focus is more on the element of weaponry.

Saifuddin explained that the recent incidents involved contraband and were not due to a deficiency in the existing scanning machines. He confirmed that the Director-General of the Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS), Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain, briefed him, indicating that the current scanners are capable of detecting all such items. However, the scope of inspections has prioritized weaponry.

Baggage screening at KLIA is currently managed by Aviation Security (AVSEC) and Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB) Auxiliary Police, adhering to standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). Saifuddin reiterated that the existing machines possess high capabilities for detecting various objects, but the issue lies in the scope and priority of inspections, which have leaned towards detecting weapons.

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The issue is not the capability of the machine but the scope and priority of the inspection, which focuses more on the element of weaponry. Therefore, the aspect of contraband detection will also be examined in this improvement plan.

To address this, the government will review the detection of contraband as part of an improvement plan. Saifuddin emphasized that the government will not be satisfied with the current system and will explore the use of more advanced new technologies if necessary. He stressed the seriousness of the incidents, noting their impact on the nation's image, border security, and international confidence in Malaysia's airport security system. A special meeting involving top KDN leadership is scheduled to detail a comprehensive improvement plan to prevent recurrence.

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We will look comprehensively at where the weaknesses occurred and how immediate steps can be taken to address them.