Greek traveller Andreas Tomazou recently received lots of backlash for his TikTok video, in which he complained about the liquid restrictions implemented by Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA)
In the video posted on Thursday, 15 December, Tomazou captured himself protesting being denied permission to take a bottle of water he had purchased onto the plane.
"It's the first time I have experienced something like this. I've been to 51 countries, and this (KLIA) is the only airport that does this," Tomazou said in his video.
His main gripe with the liquid restriction was that he felt forced to pay for water on the aeroplane, which would cost three to four times the average amount.
The TikToker's video has since gone viral, with many netizens lambasting him for not knowing the travel restrictions at an airport despite being as well-travelled as he is.
Tomazou said that netizens misunderstood his video to Says.
Tomazou said that many netizens did not see that he was directed to throw his water away at the second security checkpoint right before boarding the plane.
According to Tomazou, he had already passed the first security check and the passport check-in.
"If I was carrying any liquids that were not allowed on the plane, airport security personnel would have told me to dispose of them already," the tourist said.
Tomazou also clarified that he bought the water bottle and some snacks at the duty-free stores within the boarding terminal, which is typically allowed.
He maintained his belief that this was a tactic for airlines to charge their passengers extortionate amounts of money for necessities on the plane.
Tomazou told SAYS that he was surprised by the backlash he received on his video but hoped that Malaysians could come to understand his side of the story.
"I hope Malaysians will understand my reasons. I am already in love with Malaysia and Kuala Lumpur and people [here] are so friendly and welcoming," Tomazou said.
the wrong nor right to bring a bottle of water onto the plane
Following the recommendations of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), passengers are allowed to buy liquids, aerosols, or gels (LAGS) beyond the security checkpoint, including at duty-free shops or during the flight.
Each container of LAGS must also not exceed 100ml and be placed in a clear plastic bag, where the total amount in one bag has a maximum limit of 1L.
The LAGS bought must also be sealed in plastic bags, and travellers must present proof of purchase at security checkpoints, both of which Tomazou did not appear to do.
