Kelantan Convoy Sparks Airport Outcry

Transport Minister Anthony Loke has publicly condemned a group of Kelantan assemblymen who staged a 'Mat Motor' convoy across the runway at Kota Bharu airport on Saturday. The unsanctioned parade caused alarm among staff and passengers and was described by Loke as irresponsible.

The Mat Motor tradition, popular in Kelantan, often sees large rider groups parading through town centres for festivals or political events. This time the assemblymen claimed it was a tribute to state transport achievements, yet they ignored aviation protocols that reserve runways for aircraft.

Loke ordered immediate roadblocks around the airport and instructed the Civil Aviation Authority to review security procedures, demanding an inquiry into how the convoy obtained clearance. His swift response signals a zero‑tolerance stance on any activity that could jeopardise passenger safety.

The incident highlights the tension between state political displays and federal transport oversight. If left unchecked, such stunts could erode public confidence in airport safety and set a risky precedent, prompting calls for tighter coordination and stricter enforcement of aviation rules.

Travelers using Kota Bharu airport may face tighter security checks and possible delays as authorities reinforce procedures. The episode also serves as a reminder that political actions can directly impact public safety, urging citizens to demand accountability from elected officials who use public infrastructure for spectacle.

The convoy exposed gaps in coordination between state politicians and federal aviation authorities, risking passenger safety and operational disruption. It underscores the need for clear, enforceable protocols to prevent political events from compromising critical transport hubs, reinforcing public trust in airport security.