Malaysian authorities have denied entry to 98 Bangladeshi citizens at Kuala Lumpur International Airport after finding their travel documents unsatisfactory, according to the state news agency Bernama.

The incident occurred during an operation conducted by the country’s Border Control and Protection Agency (AKSEM) at Terminal 1 of the airport between 1 am and 7:30 am on Friday. 

Officials said the passengers had arrived on a flight from Dhaka but failed to meet the requirements for entry.

During the inspection, AKSEM officers reviewed the documents of 181 travelers. Of these, 98 Bangladeshis were served with a “Not to Land” notice. 

Authorities cited the absence of valid hotel bookings, return tickets, and proof of sufficient funds as reasons for refusing their entry.

Officials further suggested that the group may have deliberately chosen an early-morning arrival in an attempt to avoid stricter daytime scrutiny. 

The agency also raised suspicions that some of the travelers intended to misuse their tourist visas to remain in Malaysia illegally and seek unauthorized employment.

In a statement, AKSEM stressed that the operation was carried out to safeguard national sovereignty and strengthen border security. It added that such checks would continue in the future.

SMS/