Malaysia will launch an Advanced Passenger Screening System (APSS) later this year to bolster aviation security, in a move the Home Ministry says will align the country with global standards and reduce risks before passengers even board their flights.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the system, developed under the United Nations Security Council and monitored by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), will capture data such as names, passport numbers, seat allocations and even meal choices before departure.
“The advantage of APSS is that security compliance is ensured before passengers even depart, reducing risks and making mitigation easier,” Saifuddin told reporters at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), Tuesday.
Malaysia has completed vendor selection and is developing the platform, with test runs scheduled between September and October involving 10 airlines. Eventually, all 56 carriers operating in Malaysia will be part of the system.
The introduction of APSS is part of a broader border management overhaul that will see Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) take full charge of the country’s 123 entry points, including airports, from January 2026.
One agency, one chain of command
AKPS was launched in January this year and began operations at 21 checkpoints in February. By early next year, it will replace multiple departments, including Customs, Immigration and police, as the sole authority at all land, air and sea entry points.
“With one chain of command, administration becomes more effective, coordinated and functions as a one-stop centre,” Saifuddin said.
“This also shortens clearance time for consignments and makes procedures smoother for industry players.”
The agency, which currently has 5,180 staff, is working with the Public Service Department to design a dedicated service scheme. Between January and July, AKPS issued 17,658 refusal-of-entry notices to foreigners, with 13,790 of them at KLIA, and seized RM1.9 million worth of prohibited or unlicensed goods.
Preparing for the RTS Link
AKPS will also be the Malaysian frontliner for the Johor Baru–Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link, due to open in January 2027.
The 4km rail line will move up to 10,000 passengers per hour in each direction and feature co-located Customs, Immigration and Quarantine (CIQ) facilities at Bukit Chagar in Johor and Woodlands North in Singapore.
Malaysia plans to table a new border control law in Parliament in February 2026 to support the project. Saifuddin said this would be more practical than amending 37 separate statutes. A dry run of RTS border operations is planned for late 2026 before the service goes live.
Balancing facilitation and security
Saifuddin said the reforms are meant to strengthen security while ensuring the movement of people and goods remains smooth through streamlined border procedures.
“AKPS’ mission is to safeguard the country’s security while facilitating the movement of people and goods,” he said.
“From next year, that mission becomes nationwide.”
Image: Home Ministry
