The director-general of the Malaysia Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS), Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain, says he is prepared to accept any decision or action taken by the government following a viral video involving him at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA).
Mohd Shuhaily said he was ready to take responsibility for what happened and would leave further investigations to the relevant authorities to ensure the matter was dealt with fairly.
“I have informed the highest levels of government and the ministry about this matter. Whatever decision they make, I accept it.
“For me, changing something comes at a price. If the price is myself, then I will pay with myself,” he said at a press conference on Thursday.
The controversy arose after a video circulated online showing an individual resembling Mohd Shuhaily appearing to confront and scold another man. The footage also appeared to show the man’s head being held in a forceful manner.
A separate allegation by an individual claiming to have been mistreated by Mohd Shuhaily was also circulated online.
Mohd Shuhaily said he did not consider himself perfect and was prepared to face any consequences arising from the incident.
“I am standing before all of you to face and take responsibility for what has happened,” he said.
However, he expressed hope that any decision taken against him would not affect AKPS personnel, whom he described as being at the forefront of efforts to strengthen security at the country’s entry points.
Mohd Shuhaily explained that the incident occurred while he and his officers were conducting limited enforcement operations on Level 5 of KLIA.
The operation was carried out during preparations for increased visitor arrivals ahead of this weekend’s Formula 1 race, as well as following complaints about foreign nationals allegedly involved in “ulat” touting activities and an increase in the detection of drugs and contraband at baggage inspection areas.
He said a foreign national suspected of being involved in a touting syndicate was detained and taken to a baggage inspection room.
While officers were interviewing the individual, two unidentified people appeared and began recording the incident.
Mohd Shuhaily said his officers approached the pair and brought them forward to review what they had recorded before instructing them to delete the footage.
“I gave the strongest warning that the enforcement operation at that time only involved AKPS officers together with KLIA Aviation Security (AVSEC),” he said.
