KUALA LUMPUR: Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail has assured that the use of the automatic gate system at Malaysia's entry points, which has been extended to travellers from 63 countries since June, will not compromise security.
He said that upon arrival, travellers' photos and other details would be scanned, which he believes is adequate for maintaining accurate records.
"The use of the 'autogate' system does not compromise security. Even though passports are no longer stamped, the system scans travellers' photos and details, which is more than enough to maintain their records," he said during the Minister's Question Time in the Dewan Rakyat today.
Saifuddin's assurance came in response to concerns raised by Datuk Che Mohamad Zulkifly Jusoh (PN-Besut).
He said that the system aligned with global trends, adding that all neighbouring countries had adopted similar "auto gate" technology.
Since June 1, Malaysia has allowed foreign nationals from 63 low-risk countries to use the automatic gate system at all entry points.
Saifuddin also said that the system at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) had successfully reduced the clearance process to under 25 minutes, though on rare occasions, it might take up to 49 minutes due to flight delays.
"However, for 25 to 26 days a month, clearance is completed in less than 25 minutes," he said.