KUALA LUMPUR – Starting January 1, the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM) will consolidate its inspection process for travellers departing Malaysia at the departure gates of Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 1 (KLIA T1).
Currently, inspections are carried out via Departure Screening scanners located in the departure zone, after Immigration clearance. This setup has occasionally led to congestion, especially during peak travel times.
In a statement today, the Ministry of Transport (MOT) revealed that the new approach aims to streamline passenger movement before boarding, reducing congestion and waiting times in the departure zone.
“This improvement is the result of close collaboration between the MOT, JKDM, Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB), and the Malaysia Border Control and Protection Agency (MCBA),” the ministry said.
The MOT assured that this change will not compromise security or customs enforcement. “On the contrary, the inspection of passengers and goods will continue to be enhanced through operational coordination and adherence to mutually agreed procedures,” it added.
The ministry expects the new arrangement to improve the passenger experience, speed up the boarding process, and ensure more efficient, safe, and orderly operations at KLIA T1, in line with international airport best practices.
However, it cautioned that any attempts to smuggle goods in violation of the law will face strict enforcement. – December 30, 2025