PETALING JAYA: The mechanics of police involvement in aviation security are currently being finalised, says Tan Sri Mohd Khalid Ismail (pic).
The Inspector-General of Police said that police welcomed the decision by the Cabinet as announced earlier on Wednesday (Aug 5).
"The police has taken note of and welcomes the Cabinet's decision on immediate measures to strengthen the country's aviation security, including the involvement of police personnel in the Aviation Security (AVSEC) team.
“The police is fully committed and ready to provide its cooperation in implementing the government's decision.
"At present, the police, together with the Home and Transport Ministries, and the relevant agencies, are finalising the implementation mechanism, including the scope of duties, deployment locations, manpower requirements, areas of responsibility and operational coordination,” he said in a statement on Wednesday.
He added that the direct police involvement in the aviation security ecosystem will strengthen intelligence sharing, threat detection and provide immediate responses to threats.
"This initiative will form part of a more comprehensive and multi-layered security system, encompassing strengthened access control, screening procedures, security inspections, risk assessments and strategic cooperation among all relevant agencies and stakeholders.
"The implementation of tighter, integrated and intelligence-led security measures is expected to enhance preventive capabilities, reduce risks and close potential security gaps that could be exploited by irresponsible parties.
“The police assures the public that aviation security and the security of the country's entry and exit points will continue to be given the highest priority. Any attempt to use the aviation industry as a channel for criminal activities will not be tolerated,” he said.
Earlier, government spokesman and Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil said that the government had ordered immediate measures to tighten airport security, including deploying police personnel alongside aviation security teams.
This follows the arrest of a Malaysian pilot at an Indonesian airport after he was found with drugs.
The minister also said that Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) would also be required to review its background and health screening procedures for pilots and co-pilots.
