Govt to present comprehensive airport security plan to cabinet next week

Kota Baru: The Malaysian government will unveil a comprehensive airport security plan to the cabinet next week, announced Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail today. The plan will encompass coordination among agencies, training, infrastructure, and logistics, with a primary focus on airport screening procedures and personnel operating the equipment.

The government's concern was highlighted by the detention of a pilot and the discovery of drugs, which were discussed in last week's cabinet meeting. Relevant agencies, including the Home Ministry and Transport Ministry, were directed to collaborate and develop a detailed plan to enhance airport security. Yesterday, the agencies held a meeting, and Saifuddin was informed that a report on the proposed improvements would be presented to the cabinet within a week.

The review will also cover airport scanning machines and procedures for handling their findings, with a primary focus on detecting bombs, weapons, sharp objects, and firearms. Saifuddin emphasized the need to address blind spots in the closed-circuit television (CCTV) system at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) and improve the standards and training of personnel responsible for monitoring and overseeing the systems.

The proposed improvements involve both the Home Ministry and Transport Ministry, although it has yet to be determined which ministry will lead the presentation to the cabinet.