MAHB takes decisive action against wildlife smuggling

Amidst mounting concerns over wildlife smuggling cases linked to departing passengers from Malaysia, Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) has taken decisive action to confront and combat the issue head-on. The airport operator, committed to upholding its responsibility, is taking proactive measures to prevent the illicit transportation of wildlife and hazardous items on aircraft.

In a statement, MAHB emphasized that it adheres to the standards set forth by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), which necessitate airports to prevent dangerous items from being brought on board civil aircraft. To fulfill this requirement, all Malaysia Airports have installed state-of-the-art automated baggage screening systems. Notably, Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) employs a comprehensive five-level screening process that effectively detects potential threats, including weapons, explosives, and other dangerous objects.

Collaboration with relevant agencies

While the primary responsibility of capturing and prosecuting wildlife traffickers lies with other relevant agencies, such as the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM) and the Department of Wildlife and National Parks of Peninsula Malaysia (PERHILITAN), MAHB has actively collaborated with these entities to bolster security checks and baggage screening. The airport operator has initiated continuous engagements with relevant agencies, leading to collaborative operations aimed at enhancing security measures for targeted flights.

“As a responsible airport operator, Malaysia Airports has proactively taken steps to address the issue of wildlife smuggling, through cooperation with airlines and all relevant agencies in their respective enforcement activities. Among the initiatives include initiating continuous engagements with the agencies that have resulted in collaborative operations of enhancing security checks and baggage screening for targeted flights.” MAHB said in a statement.

Raising awareness and data-driven assessments

Apart from cooperation with law enforcement agencies, MAHB is also focused on raising awareness among passengers about the gravity of wildlife trafficking. Public Service Announcement campaigns are being carried out at all network airports to educate passengers about the legal implications and consequences of trafficking wildlife.

Furthermore, MAHB is in the process of engaging with the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) to establish more vigilant monitoring mechanisms based on data-driven assessments of high-risk flights. By analyzing data trends, they aim to enhance security measures and preempt potential wildlife smuggling attempts.

Wildlife smuggling attempt foiled

The urgency of MAHB’s efforts is highlighted by a recent incident at Trichy International Airport in Chennai, India. Authorities seized 47 pythons and two lizards from a traveler’s trolley bag. The passenger had arrived from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on a Batik Air flight. The individual, identified as Muhammad Moideen, was arrested after customs officials discovered the reptiles during an inspection.

Prompt action was taken by forest guards at the airport to secure the seized reptiles and ensure their safe return to Malaysia, their country of origin. Muhammad Moideen is currently in custody for questioning, and authorities are conducting further investigations to determine the extent of his involvement and possible links to wildlife trafficking networks.

As MAHB intensifies its efforts against wildlife trafficking, the airport operator reiterates its call for all passengers to strictly adhere to the laws and regulations of both their countries of origin and destination. Transporting prohibited or unlawful items in carry-on and checked baggage not only jeopardizes wildlife but also exposes offenders to legal consequences under international agreements like the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).