Saifuddin: Malaysia to review airport baggage checks, eyes advanced scanners to curb contraband

Malaysia's government plans to review airport baggage screening procedures and consider advanced detection equipment to curb contraband, says Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail. The review will focus on the scope of existing inspections, the capability of screening officers and the potential deployment of newer technology.

Currently, baggage checks conducted by AVSEC personnel and auxiliary police from Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB) prioritize weapons, including firearms, sharp weapons, bombs and other items in accordance with International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards. Saifuddin noted that existing scanners are highly capable of detecting various items, but the focus of inspections requires greater attention to contraband.

The effectiveness of screening also depends on the officers operating the equipment, highlighting the need to improve personnel capability. Malaysia is open to upgrading its scanners, as the technology for airport security continues to advance. The government aims to identify weaknesses in the screening process and implement immediate measures to strengthen enforcement, ensuring that security measures can detect not only conventional threats but also a wider range of contraband.