PUTRAJAYA: The Cabinet will be briefed next week on proposed measures to strengthen security screening procedures and upgrade scanning facilities following the detention of a Malaysian pilot in Indonesia, says Anthony Loke.
The Transport Minister said the Home Ministry was primarily responsible for drafting comprehensive plans to improve standard operating procedures (SOPs) for security screening and physical facility upgrades.
“We will look at all the scope of the machines and other SOPs as well, to ensure that our machines and facilities are improved,” Loke told reporters at the ministry's headquarters on Thursday (Aug 13).
He added that all airlines operating in the country have been instructed to enhance the monitoring and screening of pilots and cabin crew.
Loke said the Transport Ministry (MOT) and Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) are taking steps to enhance surveillance and screening, while Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) has also been told to tighten its internal procedures.
“Not only MAG, but other airlines as well. We will ensure that all airlines strengthen their surveillance and screening of pilots and cabin crew,” he said.
On the Malaysian pilot detained in Indonesia, Loke said the case remains under the jurisdiction of Indonesian authorities and that Malaysia will respect their ongoing investigation.
He assured that Malaysia will extend full cooperation to assist Indonesian law enforcement.
Loke added that Malaysian police have dispatched an investigation team to Indonesia to assist their counterparts with the case.
“As far as the case is concerned, it is under the jurisdiction of the Indonesian authorities. So, we have to respect the authority of the Indonesian police.
“The investigation is being conducted primarily by the Indonesian authorities,” he said.
The 39-year-old pilot was arrested by Indonesian authorities at Terminal 3 of Soekarno-Hatta International Airport on suspicion of attempting to smuggle 25kg of drugs.
