MAHB Committed to Tackling Wildlife Smuggling at KLIA
KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) remains steadfast in its commitment to combating wildlife smuggling at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) through enhanced security measures and strategic collaboration with enforcement agencies.
In a statement on Monday, MAHB, the operator of KLIA, emphasized that its Aviation Security (AVSEC) team prioritizes the prevention of illegal activities that could threaten passenger safety and air transport security.
“While our baggage handling system is primarily designed to ensure critical security priorities, MAHB remains dedicated to fighting wildlife smuggling by working closely with all relevant authorities,” the statement read.
The airport operator highlighted its partnerships with key agencies, including the Royal Malaysian Customs Department, the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (PERHILITAN) Peninsular Malaysia, the Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services (MAQIS), and the Royal Malaysia Police.
“Recognizing the importance of a multi-agency approach, Malaysia Airports actively collaborates with enforcement authorities and relevant non-governmental organizations (NGOs), such as TRAFFIC, to raise awareness and strengthen anti-smuggling efforts,” it added.
These collaborations have led to stricter security checks and targeted baggage screenings for high-risk flights.
Additionally, MAHB has contributed resources to enhance detection capabilities. In June 2024, it donated two Belgian Malinois K9 detection dogs to PERHILITAN, trained to identify endangered species listed under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), including elephant ivory, rhino horns, pangolin scales, snakes, and turtles.
Recent enforcement efforts have yielded significant successes, including the seizure of five endangered Straw-headed Bulbuls worth RM65,000 at KLIA Terminal 2 and the prevention of an attempt to smuggle 4,386 endangered Pig-nosed Turtles concealed in seven suitcases bound for Hanoi.
Through stringent security measures, dedicated partnerships, and proactive enforcement, MAHB reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding aviation integrity while ensuring passenger safety, wildlife protection, and national security.
On March 13, Minister of Transport Anthony Loke directed MAHB to intensify baggage monitoring and screening at KLIA to combat wildlife smuggling. This followed a statement by Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability, Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad, who revealed that Malaysia has become a transit hub for the trafficking of high-value wildlife parts.
(Source: BERNAMA)
