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Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 1 (KLIA 1) today launched a green lane concept aimed at expediting the clearance process for international passengers and reducing congestion, particularly in the baggage claim area.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, this initiative is a collaborative effort by Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB), the Royal Malaysian Customs Department, and the Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS). The green lane facility is designed for passengers without luggage to declare, allowing them to proceed directly to the arrival hall and thus shortening their waiting times.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke explained that, alongside the two green lanes, a red lane is available for passengers with goods that require declaration for inspection and duty payment. "Previously, all passengers would go through a single lane, and sometimes customs officers would require baggage to pass through scanners. We found that this caused some delays, resulting in long and congested lanes," Loke said after inspecting the green lane implementation at KLIA T1.

Loke emphasized that national security remains uncompromised despite the green lane's introduction. "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 stated.

He noted that passenger movement has been smoother and more convenient, aligning with the anticipated increase in tourist arrivals for Visit Malaysia 2026. The green lane will operate as a one-month pilot project until February 26, evaluating its effectiveness before finalizing standard operating procedures.

According to Loke, if the pilot proves successful, the concept will extend to KLIA Terminal 2 and other international airports in Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, Penang, and Johor Bahru. The initiative does not necessitate an increase in customs pers onnel. "So we hope this initiative will further 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 concluded.