Airport revamp needed before VM2026

The Star

a day ago

Work in progress: The aerotrain performing a test run at KLIA Terminal 1. — AZHAR MAHFOF/The Star
PETALING JAYA: With just months to go before the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign kicks off, tourism industry leaders are worried about first impressions – they say KLIA and other airports need serious facelifts.
Strangely enough, KLIA Terminal 1 – the bigger terminal – loses out to Terminal 2 when it comes to the range of food and services.
'At KLIA Terminal 1, the food in restaurants is often pre-prepared and simply reheated, which is not ideal. In contrast, Terminal 2 offers a much more diverse selection of dining options and shopping outlets,' says Malaysia Inbound Chinese Association president Datuk Angie Ng.
Terminal 2 also provides essential travel items, such as luggage locks or new suitcases, at reasonable prices.
Ng cited Singapore's Changi Airport as an example of what Malaysia should aspire to, with attractions like photo spots and a library for visitors, as well as a Food Republic outlet that offers a wide variety of freshly prepared meals.
'Unfortunately, the reheated food at our airport is unappealing,' she said.
Ng did, however, commend KLIA's efficient Immigration clearance process, although there is still some congestion and confusion at baggage claim areas, particularly in Terminal 2.
She said the airport needs more automated check-in machines and other state-of-the-art equipment.
'Other countries update facilities every two to three years. We should do the same, especially before VM 2026,' she said.
Ng also highlighted the need for more airline staff to help elderly passengers at Terminal 2.
Malaysia Inbound Tourism Association president Mint Leong echoed these concerns.
'KLIA gives the first impression for visitors. Malaysia Airports has already made improvements, such as offering complimentary drinks upon arrival and speeding up baggage collection and immigration clearance for Malaysians using the MyBorderPass App,' she said.
However, she said the aerotrain service needs to be up and running as soon as possible, as shuttle buses are inconvenient, especially for families.
'During peak travel times, waiting times for shuttle buses can be long,' she added.
Malaysian Tourism Federation president Datuk Tan Kok Liang noted that while the aerotrain was important, there is a broader need to ensure comprehensive infrastructure and service readiness.
'We hope the tourism industry and government can work together to achieve the goals set,' he said.
Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce president Loo Kok Seong said Malaysia's position as Asean chair this year would see more diplomatic and business visitors arriving.
'Given the growing number of exchanges, we must complete the aerotrain upgrades swiftly,' he said.
After a two-year hiatus, the KLIA Terminal 1 aerotrain is expected to resume operations soon. Transport Minister Anthony Loke has announced a media test run next week to preview the service before it officially reopens.
In January, Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd managing director Datuk Mohd Izani Ghani announced that the KLIA aerotrain, was expected to be operational by the second quarter of 2025.