KUALA LUMPUR (Dec 30): International travellers departing from Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 1 (KLIA T1) will only undergo customs checks at their respective boarding gates beginning Jan 1, 2026.

Currently, the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (RMCD) conducts the checks using 'departure screening' scanners at the departure zone located immediately after the immigration counters. This arrangement has the potential of causing congestions during peak travel periods, said the Ministry of Transport (MOT) in a statement.

Under the new arrangement, customs checks for travellers leaving Malaysia will be integrated into the boarding gate process. This means passengers will experience a smoother flow of movement before boarding their aircraft, thereby reducing congestions and waiting times in the departure zone, the ministry said.

The move is also expected to enhance passenger experience, expedite the boarding process and ensure that operations at KLIA T1 are conducted more efficiently, safely and in an orderly manner, in line with international airports’ best practices, it said.

The change is being implemented via close collaboration between the MOT, airport operator Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd, RMCD and the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency.

“This measure does not compromise the level of security or customs enforcement. On the contrary, passenger and goods inspection will continue to be strengthened through operational coordination and compliance with jointly agreed procedures," the ministry added.