Airport touts need smarter enforcement, not more patrols

 

THE Road Transport Department’s (JPJ) decision to deploy more personnel for 24-hour patrols at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) to curb illegal passenger transport activities is understandable.

However, it also raises an important question: why are we still relying on the same enforcement approach after nearly three decades?

Illegal touting has persisted since KLIA opened in 1998 despite numerous enforcement operations over the years. While each new operation may produce short-term results, the problem inevitably returns.

Repeating the same strategy while expecting a different outcome should prompt policymakers to consider whether a different approach is needed.

KLIA is one of Malaysia’s most important transport hubs and a critical gateway for international visitors. It is also a high-security environment where technology already plays an increasingly important role in safeguarding passengers and infrastructure.

As passenger numbers continue to recover, enforcement methods should evolve accordingly.

Rather than relying primarily on foot patrols, greater use should be made of facial recognition technology (FRT) and artificial intelligence to identify repeat offenders and monitor high-risk areas around arrival halls and passenger pick-up zones.

Facial recognition systems are already widely used at airports and major transport hubs worldwide to enhance security and improve surveillance.

Such systems allow enforcement agencies to identify known offenders quickly and monitor suspicious activities without disrupting legitimate travellers.

Malaysia has already invested heavily in AI-enabled surveillance systems. Extending similar technology to areas vulnerable to illegal touting would strengthen enforcement while reducing dependence on manpower alone.

Technology, however, should complement rather than replace enforcement officers.

Once repeat offenders are identified through surveillance, enforcement personnel can intervene quickly and take appropriate action.

This is far more effective than relying solely on random patrols or roadside inspections after offences have already been committed.

Equally important is the experience of arriving passengers.

For many international visitors, KLIA provides their first impression of Malaysia. Lengthy roadside inspections and visible enforcement operations may reassure some travellers but can also create the perception that problems remain widespread.

Preventing touting before it occurs is preferable to stopping vehicles after passengers have already been approached.

As passenger traffic continues to grow, relying on additional manpower alone is unlikely to provide a long-term solution.

Technology offers an opportunity to improve enforcement while allowing officers to focus on targeted operations rather than routine patrols.

Malaysia has the technological capability to modernise enforcement at its busiest airport. What is needed now is the commitment to use those tools effectively. 

YS Chan is a tourism, transport and training consultant.

The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of MMKtT. 

- Focus Malaysia.