Airport security is focus of concern again

THE fatal attack on Kim Jong-nam with VX nerve agent on Feb 13 at KLIA2 is a stark reminder that the safety of any liquid irrespective of quantity carried by travellers on flights should not be taken for granted.

It is also a reminder for airlines and airport operators around the world to work in tandem to enhance security and safety of passengers, crew and the aircraft. The fact that VX is colourless, odourless and deadly sends chills down the spine.

The frightening attack on a helpless man at a busy international airport terminal is an indication that it could happen anywhere. Airports are high-security areas but the level of safety should never be seen as sufficient.

While it will never be determined how VX reached Malaysian soil, it would be unfair to point the finger at the airport of departure or the point of arrival as it has been said by experts that it would have been difficult to detect small amounts through the screening process carried out by the airlines and airport operators.

We will never be able to comprehend why this had to happen on Malaysian soil, more so at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport. Malaysia’s safety and diplomacy has been abused.

It is surely a relief to all travel- lers and Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB), and airlines using KLIA2 for their operations, that the facility has been declared free of any traces of the VX that was used to attack Jongnam.

All said and done, the authorities should seriously consider allowing only those with a flight itinerary (e-ticket) into the terminal at major airports across the country. This should be gradually implemented for other facilities.

As an added security, all check-in luggage and cabin bags should be screened at the entrance of the gate at the respective terminals. MAHB as the manager and operator of the airport would require additional security personnel and would incur increased operating costs.

But this should not be seen as an obstacle. The additional cost could be passed on to the users of the airport and travellers.

No traveller would complain when he/she has to pay for a slight increase in passenger service charge due to enhanced security measures.

Allowing only those travelling into the terminal would also ease congestion at the respective airline check-in counters.