Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) is set for tighter security controls after the government approved 17 recommendations aimed at strengthening screening, access and risk management at the major air hub.

Six measures have been identified as immediate priorities, with KLIA serving as the pilot location.

Over the longer term, the eventual rollout to other gateways will depend on threat levels, operational needs and the suitability of each location.

For travellers and the aviation industry, the changes will affect everything from passenger and baggage screening to the security checks faced by airport and airline personnel.

6 immediate changes

1. Targeted risk-based screening
   On flights, passengers, crew and baggage identified as higher risk

2. Tighter staff vetting and access
   For flight crew, airline employees, airport operations, ground-handling personnel alongside those requiring access to restricted areas

3. Drug screening stepped up
   For aviation personnel through pre-employment, periodic as well as random checks

4. Increased police presence
   The Royal Malaysia Police will increase headcount at strategic locations across T1 and T2

5. Improved intelligence sharing
   Enhanced via the National Immigration Command Centre

6. A joint implementation committee
   A new Home Ministry-Transport Ministry Technical Committee will coordinate the rollout, address inter-agency issues and monitor the wider action plan

The remaining medium and long-term recommendations will be introduced at a later time.

Meanwhile, the next phase will focus on technology, assets and human resources, while longer-term plans include broader system transformation, improved information sharing and governance, and expanding these measures to other international entry points.