JOHOR BARU: Travellers from 63 countries can now benefit from the autogate immigration clearance system when entering Malaysia via Kuala Lumpur or Johor.
This expansion includes an additional 27 countries, enhancing the facility's reach and efficiency.
Previously, the NST reported that the autogate system was available to travellers from 36 low-risk countries starting June 1. These travellers could use their passports for a swift entry through the autogate system.
Home Ministry secretary-general Datuk Ruji Ubi confirmed the recent expansion, which now includes diplomats serving in Malaysia and their family members.
This upgrade follows Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail's announcement last month about the eligibility of 36 low-risk countries and regions for the autogate system.
Initially, only 10 countries were eligible for the autogate system in February last year. This number expanded to include all European Union member states, Bahrain, United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Jordan, Oman, Qatar, Canada, China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan by June 1 this year.
Now, travellers from 63 countries can use the facility when flying into Malaysia through Kuala Lumpur International Airport's Terminals 1 and 2.
Additionally, those travelling by land can access the autogate system at the Customs, Immigration, and Quarantine (CIQ) complex at Bangunan Sultan Iskandar and the Sultan Abu Bakar Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and Security (ICQS) Complex at the Second Link.
The autogate system allows travellers, including foreigners, to scan their passports and pass through an automated gate, significantly reducing immigration clearance time to between 10 and 15 seconds, compared to up to 30 minutes at manual counters.
This expansion is expected to improve the efficiency and experience of entering Malaysia, reflecting the country's commitment to facilitating smoother and quicker immigration processes for international travellers.