Malaysia border control glitch leaves travellers stranded

b>Malaysian Immigration System Glitch

Since Friday afternoon a software glitch has crippled Malaysia’s self‑service border control machines, affecting over 200 devices and leaving tens of thousands of travellers stranded.

b>Impact on Major Gateways

• b>Kuala Lumpur International Airport – both main terminals now face heavy queues at manual counters.
• b>Southern Land Crossings with Singapore – Johor’s auto‑gate network is largely operating manually, causing delays for all foreign passport holders.

b>Official Statements

Zakaria Shaaban, director‑general of Malaysia’s Immigration Department, estimates the delay is “more than tens of thousands of travellers” yet could not provide a precise figure.

The Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency traced the disruption to a “data integration issue” within the MyIMMS immigration system, which stalled the cross‑checking process.

b>Measures Taken

• All manual counters have been fully activated.
• Additional personnel have been deployed to manage visitor flow.
• New manual capacity has been established to control queues at best possible efficiency.

b>Travelers’ Advisory

Singapore’s Immigration and Checkpoints Authority recommends travellers heading to Malaysia to expect significant delays. If already at land checkpoints, travellers can approach officers for assistance.

b>Historical Context

Since June 2024, travellers from 63 countries, accredited diplomats, and their families have been allowed to use Malaysia’s self‑service machines for immigration clearance.