Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB) and the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) have launched a major enforcement operation at the Sultan Ismail Petra Airport (LTSIP) in Kota Bharu to stop illegal street racing. The move follows escalating complaints regarding "Mat Rempit" (illegal motorcyclists) using the airport’s kerbside and approach roads for high speed racing and dangerous stunts during the late night hours.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke confirmed that security measures have been significantly tightened, including the installation of additional CCTV cameras and the use of physical barriers to block racing routes after the last flight of the day. Today, police conducted a "surprise sweep" in the vicinity, resulting in the seizure of over 40 motorcycles and several arrests for reckless driving and document irregularities.

The authorities have warned that such activities not only disturb the peace of local residents but also pose a serious security risk to the international gateway. Similar operations are expected to be carried out at other regional airports across the country where illegal racing has been reported. Local community leaders have welcomed the crackdown, citing a noticeable improvement in safety and noise levels since the barriers were installed.