The new National Integrated Immigration System (NIISe) automated clearance gate system at the international departure area of Penang International Airport is currently undergoing live testing.
Penang State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy YB Wong Hon Wai said the airport manager informed him that the old automated clearance system at the international departure area was decommissioned about a week ago. A new system has since been installed and live testing began yesterday.
“The new system currently has five electronic gates undergoing testing. Malaysian passport holders can use the new system for outbound immigration clearance, while foreign passport holders are temporarily required to clear immigration at the counters. Based on user feedback, the clearance process takes less than 10 seconds, making it faster than the old system,” he said.
He added that the new automated clearance system is expected to complete full testing and be officially operational by mid-January next year. Once launched, it will enable Malaysians and travellers from 63 countries to clear immigration more efficiently, significantly speeding up the process. Authorities also plan to install the new system at the international arrival area, with related works expected to be implemented in the first quarter of next year.
Earlier, Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB) announced plans to install the new system at Penang International Airport to alleviate long-standing congestion in the international terminal.
Commenting on this, Wong said one of the main reasons for congestion at the international terminal is the insufficient number of existing immigration autogates, which currently are only available to Malaysian citizens. With the continued increase in international flights and passenger numbers, international travellers now outnumber domestic passengers, and the old system is no longer able to cope.
“MAHB has collaborated with the Immigration Department to implement the National Integrated Immigration System (NIISe) project, upgrading the old system to a new one that can be used by travellers from 63 countries, including an additional seven ASEAN countries as well as Malaysian citizens, to enhance overall passenger management efficiency.”
He added that this upgrade will not only benefit foreign visitors but also greatly improve convenience for local residents, as many Penangites and Malaysians regularly travel internationally via Penang International Airport.
The new autogate system will therefore make departures smoother and faster for locals as well.