Cabinet approves 17 measures to beef up KLIA security checks, controls

The Malaysian government has approved 17 measures to enhance security checks and controls at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) and other international entry points. This follows the arrest of a Malaysian pilot in Indonesia for alleged drug-smuggling. The Home and Transport Ministries jointly submitted the proposal, which the Cabinet approved yesterday.

Six of the 17 measures will be implemented immediately, including tighter screening of high-risk flights, passengers, crew, and baggage. Enhanced drug testing will be conducted for aviation personnel, including pilots, cabin crew, and other relevant staff through pre-employment, periodic, and random checks. Police presence at key KLIA locations will be increased, with additional General Operations Force personnel deployed during each shift at Terminals 1 and 2.

Security and intelligence agencies will also improve information-sharing through the National Immigration Command Centre.

A joint technical committee will be established to coordinate the measures and monitor their implementation, with both ministries represented. The six priority measures will be rolled out in the short term, with KLIA serving as the initial location for expansion to other international entry points based on security threats and operational needs.

The pilot, a 39-year-old Malaysian citizen, was apprehended at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Jakarta on July 28, along with ecstasy and methamphetamine capsules estimated to be worth RM45 million.