{
  "id": 426397,
  "title": "YOURSAY | Smuggling through KLIA is a people problem, not just machines",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/10/yoursay-smuggling-through-klia-is-a-people-problem-not-just-machines",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-08-10T00:34:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Malaysiakini",
    "slug": "malaysiakini",
    "url": "https://www.malaysiakini.com/news/781741"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "KLIA's security issues stem not just from outdated technology, but from a lack of skilled personnel to operate the equipment effectively. The airport's X-ray machines, though older than those used at many major global airports, generate 3D images of luggage contents, reducing the chance of missing concealed items. However, the real obstacle lies in the officers' current level of intelligence and training. Despite upgrading machines, the Home Minister, Saifuddin Nasution, highlighted that the officers' competence remains a concern. He stressed that regardless of advanced technology, insufficiently trained officers could lead to recurring problems. The qualifications to become an airport security or Aviation Security officer at KLIA are relatively basic - Malaysian citizens aged 18 to 35 with at least an SPM qualification, good physical fitness, and completion of specialized screening and tactical training. Yet, continuous training in the use of the latest technology, behavioral detection, risk assessment, and passenger profiling is crucial for developing professional judgment in identifying suspicious behavior. The training provided currently focuses more on general security and enforcement matters than on specialized threat detection techniques required at an international airport. The comments from various individuals echo this sentiment, emphasizing the need for highly trained officers who can effectively use the latest technology. They also point out that the issue is not just about machines or individual failures, but about a systemic lack of learning from mistakes and accountability. The recurring problems suggest a pattern of the same issues resurfacing, often with similar promises of investigations and changes, but a lack of follow-through. The comments also highlight a culture of deference towards the titled and wealthy, suggesting that enforcement officers may appear less strict when dealing with powerful individuals. This culture of selective enforcement permeates many areas of government administration, reflecting a larger problem that extends beyond airport security to encompass broader issues of meritocracy and equal opportunity. Ultimately, the power lies with Malaysians to demand accountability and hold their leaders to account.",
  "summary": "‘KLIA does not merely need newer machines; it needs people who know how to use them.’",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Malaysiakini",
        "title": "YOURSAY | Smuggling through KLIA is a people problem, not just machines",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/10/yoursay-smuggling-through-klia-is-a-people-problem-not-just-machines-426887",
        "published": "2026-08-10T00:34:00.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}