By PHUBIEYAS AHMAD
KUALA LUMPUR, 28 May – Malaysia’s Ministry of Home Affairs (KDN) has announced the expansion of the automated passport gate (Autogate) facility for outbound immigration clearance at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminals 1 and 2 to include passport holders from six additional ASEAN countries and Timor-Leste. The new policy will take effect starting 15 February 2025.
The extended facility will now cover travellers from Indonesia, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, the Philippines, Vietnam, and Timor-Leste, allowing faster and more efficient departure clearance via Autogate systems.
Currently, Autogate usage for outbound immigration is available to passport holders from 63 countries, including ASEAN members Singapore and Brunei. However, exemptions remain for travellers whose passports are not embedded with electronic chips, in line with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards to ensure safe and technically compliant identity verification.
According to the Ministry, this initiative aligns with the MADANI Government’s aspiration to enhance public service delivery that is efficient, fast, and compassionate to both citizens and international travellers.
It also reflects Malaysia’s commitment to regional inclusivity and cooperation, particularly in strengthening diplomatic ties and boosting tourism within ASEAN and Timor-Leste.
The Autogate expansion is part of the government’s strategic efforts to manage increased traveller volumes expected during Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025 and the upcoming Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (TMM 2026).
– TNS News