SEPANG – KL International Airport (KLIA) welcomes the deployment of K9 units at strategic locations within its terminals as part of the 17 measures to strengthen airport security, enhance the detection of prohibited items and reinforce deterrence in high-traffic public areas and restricted zones.

The deployment will cover three key areas: the Departure Hall, the Arrival Hall and the baggage sorting area. This layered security approach aims to strengthen coverage across passenger-facing and back-of-house areas, complementing existing security arrangements.

Dato’ Mohd Izani Ghani, Managing Director of Malaysia Airports, said that the deployment of K9 units will complement existing security arrangements and reinforce KLIA’s collective efforts to protect passengers, visitors and airport personnel, “This collaboration also allows our Aviation Security (AVSEC) personnel to remain focused on their core responsibility of safeguarding airport users and facilities. We will continue to support the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS), the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), Royal Malaysian Customs Department (RMCD) and the K9 units in ensuring that KLIA remains a safe, comfortable and clean airport for everyone.”

The K9 units will be stationed at the check-in areas to facilitate the early detection of prohibited items and potential security threats associated with targeted flights. Additionally, they will be deployed at the Customs inspection area to assist in detecting prohibited items, drugs and smuggled goods. Designated rest areas have also been identified at these locations, with handlers on hand to attend to the K9 units between patrols.

Beyond public areas, K9 units will also be deployed in the baggage sorting area to support security checks on checked baggage before it is loaded onto aircraft or transferred to the baggage reclaim area, extending security coverage to back-of-house operations.

To facilitate implementation, KLIA will coordinate with the relevant agencies on operational procedures, including the development of standard operating procedures (SOPs), designated access arrangements for K9 units and handlers, and the provision of appropriate support facilities within the terminals. A pilot phase will be carried out to assess the effectiveness of the selected locations and identify any necessary adjustments to passenger flows and deployment schedules.

The commencement of K9 operations inside the terminals is scheduled for 26 October 2026.