It is a severe blow to the nation's diplomatic reputation and security standing, which has ultimately forced the cabinet to plan drastic measures.
However, behind the public outrage and the emergency measures announced by the government lies a far more damaging reality: Kuala Lumpur International Airport is facing a chronic integrity crisis and enforcement paralysis.
This is because smuggling across the country's primary gateway, particularly KLIA, is hardly a new phenomenon.
From contraband cigarettes, vape liquids, and exotic fauna to high-grade narcotics, these illegal activities have long thrived...