Saifuddin: More stringent checks at KLIA to combat drug smuggling

Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) is set to introduce more stringent security measures following a rise in drug smuggling incidents, according to Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail. Saifuddin emphasized that these enhanced inspections will involve thorough checks of passengers and their luggage, extending beyond the current focus on firearms and sharp weapons.

The Home Ministry plans to implement 17 specific initiatives, in collaboration with the Transport Ministry, to combat contraband and illegal items. Additionally, a profiling system will be used to target passengers arriving from high-risk destinations. Saifuddin also mentioned that the Home Ministry aims to identify 'blind spot' areas in the airport's CCTV surveillance coverage at KLIA 1 and 2 terminals.

The airport currently has 5,000 operational CCTV cameras, but some areas remain unmonitored. These improvements are part of the broader security enhancement process at the airport. Saifuddin highlighted the recent security exercise as an essential test of preparedness and coordination between Malaysian and Singaporean agencies. The exercise, held during the closing ceremony of the Malaysia-Singapore RTS Link Security Joint Exercise, is crucial for managing potential emergencies once the service becomes fully operational.

The RTS Link, expected to handle up to 10,000 passengers per hour in each direction, requires meticulous preparation to ensure effective response to any incidents.