SEPANG, Jan 26 — Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 1 (KLIA) today opened its “green lane” for international passengers to expedite traveller screening and reduce congestion, particularly in baggage claim.
The initiative was launched by Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) in collaboration with the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM) and the Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS). The facility allows passengers without declared luggage to proceed directly to the arrival hall, thereby shortening waiting times.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke said that in addition to the two green lanes, a red lane was also opened for passengers carrying goods requiring declaration and duty payment.
“Previously, all passengers would go through a single lane, and sometimes (JKDM) officers would require baggage to pass through scanners. We found that this caused some delays, resulting in long and congested lanes.
“After several discussions between MAHB, AKPS and (JKDM), all parties agreed to introduce a concept that had been implemented previously, but this time improved to include three lanes,” he said after inspecting the green lane at KLIA today.
Loke however stressed that the green lane would not compromise national security.
“I want to emphasise that this does not in any way compromise national security. Even with the green lane, AKPS officers or personnel can still stop or inspect passengers,” he said.
He explained that passenger movement has so far been smoother and easier, in line with Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026), which is expected to see more tourist arrivals.
The green lane will be implemented as a one-month pilot project until February 26 to assess its effectiveness before its standard operating procedure is finalised.
According to Loke, if successful, the concept will be extended to KLIA Terminal 2 and other international airports in Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, Penang and Johor Bahru, adding that it won’t require additional JKDM personnel.
“We hope this initiative will improve efficiency at KLIA T1. This is one of the enhancements we will continue to pursue. Over the past few months, we have seen that KLIA, under MAHB’s supervision, has implemented many initiatives to ensure smoother operations,” Loke said.
