Malaysia's KLIA terminal gets $9m makeover for better, faster travel experience
These enhancements come as Malaysia prepares to host the 47th Asean Summit in October.
SEPANG, Selangor - Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 1 has undergone a RM30 million (S$9 million) upgrade in the first half of the year, unveiling 14 new initiatives designed to offer passengers a smarter, faster and more welcoming travel experience.
These enhancements come at a strategic time, as Malaysia prepares to host the 47th Asean Summit in October and intensifies efforts for Visit Malaysia 2026.
General Manager of Operations for KLIA Terminal 1 Abd Hasman Abd Muhimim said the upgrades reflect Malaysia Airports Holdings' (MAHB) ongoing commitment to positioning KLIA as a world-class, efficient and inclusive international hub.
'As of the first half of 2025, KLIA has recorded 30.1 million passengers, marking a 9.9 per cent increase compared to the same period last year.
'Our aim is to reduce queuing times and improve operational efficiency at every touchpoint. We continuously assess current needs and will expand facilities wherever necessary to ensure KLIA delivers the best possible service,' he told reporters at KLIA on July 14.
Among the key enhancements is the deployment of paramedics on e-scooters to enhance emergency response at the terminal.
The scooters, stationed at key areas in the main and satellite terminals, are equipped with oxygen tanks, trauma kits and automated external defibrillators (AEDs).
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'Well-trained paramedics can now arrive at the scene within three minutes to handle a range of emergencies, from cardiac arrests to minor injuries. This significantly reduces response times and improves overall passenger safety,' he said.
Additionally, 36 family-friendly parking bays have been introduced, converted from 54 standard bays and located across various levels of the short-term car park.
Mr Abd Hasman explained that this move came in response to the increasing number of families travelling through KLIA, prompting the airport to provide more tailored and convenient facilities.
To support mobility and accessibility, MAHB is also rolling out 100 new wheelchairs, with 50 already available free of charge at key locations throughout the terminal, including the main terminal building and satellite concourses.
Accessibility and inclusion, Mr Abd Hasman noted, remain at the heart of the airport's improvement strategy.
A total of 80 washrooms have been upgraded into fully integrated accessible facilities, complete with wider entrances, sensor taps, grab bars and emergency call buttons positioned at floor level - upgrades that reinforce KLIA's reputation as a family- and disability-friendly airport.
Passenger convenience has been further improved through the replacement of 5,000 outdated baggage trolleys with lighter, more stable models featuring strap-free handles and built-in brakes.
Passenger processing has seen significant upgrades as well.
A mobile bag-drop system has been introduced on a trial basis, enabling the processing of 10 times more luggage than traditional counters.
At the domestic security checkpoint, enhanced tray lanes and unpack/repack zones have doubled screening capacity to 1,500 passengers per hour, reducing wait times to under five minutes.
Self-service capabilities have also been expanded, with nine automated boarding pass scanners now operational at international airside entry points - up from just six manual lanes previously - offering faster, more contactless processing.
To facilitate smoother departures for passengers requiring assistance, two additional immigration priority counters have been added.
These serve families with young children, the elderly, expectant mothers and passengers with reduced mobility. Clearer signage has been introduced to ensure these counters are easily located.
Beyond functional improvements, the upgrades also enhance the overall ambience of the terminal. New heritage-themed wall installations celebrate Malaysian culture and identity, creating visually engaging public spaces.
Wayfinding at Aerotrain stations has been improved to help passengers navigate more easily, while the Kids Zone at Gate C30 has been revitalised with an orangutan-themed playground to provide an interactive and fun space for children. THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK
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