Malaysia on Track to Implement Advanced Passenger Screening System: Home Minister

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is on course to implement the Advanced Passenger Screening System (APSS), a high-tech security framework aimed at bolstering aviation safety and border control, Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail announced today.

Speaking at the launch of the “Benteng Persada” initiative by the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), Saifuddin said the system developed in the wake of the 9/11 terror attacks will enhance Malaysia’s ability to screen passengers before departure.

“APSS requires airlines to submit passenger information in advance, including names, passport numbers, seat assignments, and even meal preferences. This allows for more effective pre-departure security screening, reducing risks and improving mitigation measures,” he said.

The system, overseen by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), is mandatory for all countries and carriers. Saifuddin revealed that as of July, Malaysia issued 17,658 Not-To-Land (NTL) notices, with 13,790 cases recorded at KLIA alone.

“Vendor procurement has been completed, and system development is underway. A trial run will begin between September and October this year, involving the first 10 of 56 airlines operating in Malaysia,” he said.

In the same period, enforcement agencies seized contraband and prohibited goods worth RM1.9 million at the country’s entry points.

Saifuddin also highlighted the growing capacity of AKPS, which currently has 5,180 personnel. Efforts are ongoing with the Public Service Department (JPA) to establish a new dedicated service scheme to strengthen the agency’s role as a single border control authority.

On cross-border connectivity, he said preparations for the Johor Baru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link are progressing steadily. The project, due to begin operations in January 2027, will feature co-located Customs, Immigration, and Quarantine (CIQ) complexes at Bukit Cagar in Johor and Woodlands North in Singapore.

“AKPS will serve as the lead frontliner agency at both RTS stations. Preparations include developing SOPs, ensuring staff welfare, and procuring equipment such as autogates and scanners,” he said.

To support these initiatives, the Home Minister confirmed that a new bill will be tabled in Parliament in February 2026.

“If new laws are not created, we would have to amend 37 existing ones, all interconnected. The most efficient solution is to introduce a single, consolidated law,” Saifuddin explained.

Since taking over operations at 21 entry points nationwide on February 1, AKPS is expected to progressively expand its role. By January next year, all 123 official entry points across Malaysia will be managed fully under AKPS.

Also present at the event were AKPS director-general Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain and senior officials from the Home Ministry.