Malaysia to enhance airport security SOPs following pilot drug smuggling case

The Malaysian government is preparing to present an improved standard operating procedure (SOP) for airport scanning to the Cabinet next week. This initiative follows a recent incident in Indonesia involving a Malaysia Airlines pilot detained for drug smuggling.

The proposed enhancements aim to strengthen security capabilities and streamline inspection processes at airports nationwide. According to Minister of Transport Anthony Loke Siew Fook and Minister of Home Affairs Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, the plan will review the scope of existing scanning machines and the coordination of personnel operating them.

Key measures include tightening screenings and supervision for pilots and cabin crew by agencies such as Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB) and the Malaysia Aviation Group. The plan also addresses infrastructure, logistics, and training, ensuring that procedures for handling detected contraband are better coordinated between aviation security (AVSEC) and border control agencies.