AN MCA National Youth leader has called for a thorough investigation into a controversy involving Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) director-general Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain, saying conclusions should not be drawn from a video circulating online alone.
The video, which emerged following an incident at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) on Sept 28, shows Shuhaily confronting two individuals during an enforcement operation.
Shuhaily subsequently said he was prepared to accept whatever decision the authorities made regarding the incident.
The youth wing’s vice-chairman Tan Yang Pang said Shuhaily had acknowledged that he was not perfect, expressed his willingness to confront his shortcomings and indicated that he would accept the outcome of any investigation or decision by the relevant authorities.
He said Shuhaily’s willingness to face scrutiny and take responsibility for his leadership approach should also be considered when assessing the incident.
“Authorities should conduct a thorough investigation based on the full facts, rather than rushing to judge his leadership based solely on a video circulating online,” Tan remarked.
Tan said MCA Youth did not condone inappropriate forms of communication, adding that leaders had a responsibility to reflect on and improve their management approaches.
However, he noted that one controversial incident should not completely overshadow efforts to reform a law enforcement agency or discourage those responsible for raising standards from taking action because of public backlash.
For an agency such as AKPS to undergo meaningful reform, Tan acknowledged that systems and technology alone were insufficient. Internal discipline, effective execution and a leadership culture willing to confront problems were also necessary.
The controversy arose from an enforcement operation involving AKPS and KLIA Aviation Security (AVSEC) personnel. Shuhaily said the operation followed complaints about a foreign tout syndicate and increased detection of drugs and contraband at baggage screening areas.
He said two unidentified individuals appeared while officers were questioning a foreign national and were instructed to delete footage they had recorded.
According to Tan, the priority now should be allowing investigations to proceed according to due process.
“If wrongdoing is established, appropriate action can then be taken in accordance with the relevant procedures. Where improvements are identified as necessary, they can likewise be implemented,” he stated.
Tan added that the full background and circumstances surrounding the incident needed to be established before conclusions were drawn.
He said reform in public institutions could not be achieved through slogans alone, as it often involved addressing outdated practices, internal cultures and resistance to change.
“Those who drive reform need to be prepared to face scrutiny, while the rakyat also deserve to see facts established and due process allowed to run its course,” Tan emphasised. ‒ Oct 2, 2026
Main image: Bernama
