KUALA LUMPUR, March 18- Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) remains committed to addressing wildlife smuggling at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) through enhanced security measures and strategic cooperation with enforcement agencies.

As the operator of KLIA, MAHB stated that its Aviation Security (AVSEC) team focuses on preventing illegal activities that could jeopardize passenger safety and air transport.

"While our baggage handling system is designed to prioritize these critical security concerns, MAHB remains dedicated to combating wildlife smuggling through close cooperation with all relevant authorities," the statement said on Monday.

The airport operator noted that it has collaborated with key agencies, including the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM), the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (PERHILITAN) Peninsular Malaysia, the Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services (MAQIS), and the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM).

"Recognizing the importance of a multi-agency approach, Malaysia Airports actively works with enforcement authorities and relevant NGOs, such as TRAFFIC, to raise awareness and strengthen anti-smuggling efforts," the statement added.

It mentioned that this collaboration has resulted in tighter security checks and targeted baggage screenings for high-risk flights.

MAHB also contributed resources to enhance detection capabilities, including donating two trained Belgian Malinois K9 detection dogs to PERHILITAN in June 2024 to detect endangered species listed under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), such as elephant ivory, rhinoceros horns, pangolin scales, snakes, and turtles.

Recently, enforcement authorities recorded successes, including seizing five endangered White-rumped Vultures valued at RM65,000 at KLIA Terminal 2 and preventing an attempt to smuggle 4,386 endangered Pig-nosed Turtles hidden in seven suitcases for a flight to Hanoi.

Through strict security measures, dedicated collaboration, and proactive enforcement, MAHB continues to uphold the integrity of the aviation ecosystem while ensuring the safety of passengers, wildlife, and national security.

On March 13, Transport Minister Anthony Loke directed MAHB to enhance monitoring and baggage screening at KLIA to address wildlife smuggling following a statement by Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad, indicating that Malaysia has become a transit country for smuggling high-value wildlife parts.