Latest news with #Aerotrain
The Star
4 days ago
- Politics
- The Star
Stronger oversight, accountability a must for infrastructure projects
AS Malaysia continues to expand its transport network with ambitious projects like MRT3, MCA Youth firmly believes that public safety must be the cornerstone of all infrastructure development. Recent incidents, such as the Jalan Masjid India sinkhole which claimed the life of a woman from India, serve as stark reminders of the devastating consequences when safety is compromised and maintenance ignored. These tragedies are not merely accidents but systemic failures that underscore the urgent need for a paradigm shift in how we approach infrastructure planning, construction and maintenance. Safety cannot be an afterthought. It must be embedded from the earliest stages of design, with rigorous risk assessments, adherence to global standards, and robust engineering redundancies. Experts like Associate Professor Bernard Saw Lip Huat of Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman's Faculty of Engineering and Science rightly warn that cutting corners in safety jeopardises lives and erodes public trust, which is far costlier to restore than investing properly from the outset. Equally critical is the need for consistent funding for maintenance, as highlighted by Associate Professor Wan Mazlina Wan Mohamed of the Malaysia Institute of Transport, who advocates allocating 2.5% of GDP annually to preventive upkeep -- a benchmark aligned with global best practices. However, our challenges extend beyond technical solutions. Fragmented oversight among agencies like APAD, LLM, and CIDB creates gaps in enforcement and coordination, particularly at project interfaces near schools or hospitals. To address this, we propose three key measures: Prioritise safety in procurement criteria and contract awards. Expand public engagement to incorporate community feedback in risk assessments. Invest in training for regulators and contractors to align with evolving global standards. The recent example of KLIA's Aerotrain -- where 2,000km of fault-free testing preceded public operation -- demonstrates that delays for safety are not setbacks but necessities. Let this be our standard. As Malaysia progresses, we must reject the false dichotomy between speed and safety. Infrastructure is the backbone of our nation's future; it must be resilient, reliable and above all, safe for every citizen who relies on it. MIKE CHONG YEW CHUAN Deputy Chairman MCA National Youth
New Straits Times
5 days ago
- Business
- New Straits Times
Systems failure : Time for government to hire experts
Once again, we are witnessing an embarrassing failure of government procurement and implementation. The most recent examples, KLIA's RM1 billion autogate system and the much-hyped Aerotrain replacement, expose a deeper, long-standing structural flaw in how our government handles large-scale technology and infrastructure contracts. They are symptoms of a systemic failure that repeats itself over and over, costing taxpayers billions with little accountability or reform. The more than RM1 billion autogate system, which failed to deliver in the first tender, was re-tendered and awarded to a government-friendly party. Implemented at both KLIA and the Johor-Singapore Causeway, it malfunctioned within days of being put into use. The system, which is meant to ease immigration clearance, failed to perform its basic function, leaving thousands of passengers stranded and confused; leaving a poor impression on visitors and our southern neighbour. This comes on the heels of the KLIA Aerotrain fiasco, which broke down after just one day of public operation. What these failures have in common is glaring: they were systems outsourced to private corporations, supplied by external vendors, but managed without any real in-house expertise from the government. The departments including the Immigration Department, Border Control Agency, and MAHB, appear to lack qualified technical personnel who can critically evaluate, test and intervene when problems arise. How is it that such expensive, high-profile systems were allowed to go live without robust pre-commissioning and testing? And where were the internal checks and balances to ensure proper oversight? In both cases, the root problem is not just technical, it's governance. These systems were meant to be commissioned and run by supposed "experts" from corporate vendors. But the moment something fails, the government scrambles, unable to diagnose or even understand the extent of the problem without going back to the same vendors. This outsourcing dependency model, without internal technical validation, is a disaster waiting to happen, again and again. The pattern is now depressingly familiar. We saw it in the Navy's Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) project, where billions were paid out for ships that never sailed. Helicopters for the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) were ordered but never delivered. School IT systems under the Ministry of Education were installed but never properly functioned. And then there's MEX2, the infamous highway fiasco that never saw the light of day due to lack of oversight and strict financial controls. Despite these high-profile failures, we seemed determined to repeat the same mistakes: awarding billion-ringgit contracts without building the internal capacity to monitor, supervise, and hold suppliers and vendors accountable. The solution is not complicated, but it does require political will. The government must begin hiring, or at least contracting, independent technical experts, who can represent public interest in these massive procurement exercises. These professionals known as subject matter experts (or SMEs) such as engineers, IT or systems experts, traffic and transport experts, including project managers, must be hired or embedded within ministries and tasked with reviewing system designs, pre-tender review, verifying delivery milestones, auditing implementation processes, and ensuring proper testing before any public rollout. Without this layer of internal scrutiny, the government is simply signing blank cheques and hoping for the best. There is no reason why such oversight cannot be put in place. It doesn't cost much, certainly much cheaper than failing costs, bad publicity and poor reputation. In fact, many developed nations require project proponents to undergo third-party system verification and independent quality audits before deployment. Yet in Malaysia, such measures are almost always bypassed, either due to ignorance, arrogance, or worse, vested interests. We need a permanent, institutionalised mechanism, a "Government Technical Oversight Unit", perhaps, tasked solely with protecting public interest in all large-scale contracts. Whether it is defence procurement, transport infrastructure, or digital systems, this body must be empowered to question suppliers, halt faulty implementations, and report directly to Parliament or the Auditor-General. Until such a policy is implemented, Malaysians should brace for more of the same: billion-ringgit contracts that fail to deliver, with no one held accountable, and no lessons learned. It is time the government starts building the technical expertise to safeguard national interest. There should be an independent, third party review on large scale government procurement such as: * Penang LRT * Leasing of locomotives and coaches from China * Leasing of Augusta Westland helicopters by the defence ministry * MRT3 proposal. Given that the government has to borrow more to fund these projects, this raises concerns over the rising government debt that has now surpassed the trillion ringgit mark, representing almost 70 per cent of our GDP. These projects are likely candidates to go wrong and will likely get singled out by the Auditor General in a couple of years from now. Kuala Lumpur
Time Business News
16-07-2025
- Time Business News
Top 10 Largest Airports in the World
Airline Help is here for you! Call us at 800-594-4991 (OTA), and let our team guide you through your travel plans with ease. Have you ever wondered which is the biggest airport in the world or where the largest airport in the world is located? Airports are more than just runways; they're vast cities serving millions of travellers each year. Let's explore the biggest airports in the world that will leave you amazed by their size and facilities. 1. King Fahd International Airport (DMM), Saudi Arabia When it comes to land area, King Fahd International Airport in Dammam tops the list. Covering over 780 square kilometres, it is the biggest airport in the world by size. The airport features: Multiple passenger terminals Cargo facilities A separate terminal for the royal family Travel Tip: If you're flying through Dammam, reach early. The distance between terminals can take extra time. 2. Denver International Airport (DEN), USA Denver International Airport in Colorado is the largest airport in the world in the USA by area, spread over 135 square kilometres. It is famous for: Its unique tent-like roof design Extensive art installations Efficient domestic and international connectivity Need help? Airline Help is here for you! Call us at 800-594-4991 (OTA) for bookings or flight changes with ease. 3. Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), USA One of the biggest airports in the world, DFW Airport covers around 70 square kilometres. It offers: Five operational terminals A Skylink train for fast transfers Over 200 gates serving passengers worldwide Travel Tip: If you have a layover, explore their shopping and dining options for a relaxing experience. 4. Orlando International Airport (MCO), USA Another major hub in the USA is Orlando International Airport. It spans over 54 square kilometres and is known for: Its easy access to theme parks Spacious terminals Efficient shuttle systems Need help managing your flight bookings? Call Airline Help at 800-594-4991 (OTA) for smooth travel solutions. 5. Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), USA Located in Virginia, Washington Dulles International Airport covers 48 square kilometres. It is a key airport for: International flights into the USA's capital Multiple runways to manage heavy air traffic Convenient passenger facilities Travel Tip: Use their Aerotrain system to reach gates quickly. 6. Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX), China One of the newest and biggest airports in the world, Beijing Daxing Airport has a striking starfish-shaped terminal. Highlights include: Handling over 100 million passengers annually Advanced smart technology for security and boarding Multiple transport connections across Beijing Need help? Airline Help is just a call away at 800-594-4991 (OTA). 7. George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), USA In Houston, Texas, George Bush Intercontinental Airport covers 44 square kilometres. This largest airport in the world category hub offers: Five passenger terminals Strong domestic and international network Modern amenities for comfortable travel Travel Tip: If flying internationally, allow extra time for customs clearance. 8. Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG), China As one of Asia's busiest airports, Shanghai Pudong International Airport covers 40 square kilometres. It is known for: Two main passenger terminals Dedicated cargo terminals High-speed Maglev train connectivity Need assistance with your flights? Airline Help is ready to support you at 800-594-4991 (OTA). 9. Cairo International Airport (CAI), Egypt Africa's busiest and biggest airport in the world for the region, Cairo International Airport, spans 37 square kilometres. It offers: Three terminals for domestic and international flights Strong Middle Eastern and African connectivity Easy taxi and shuttle services for travellers Travel Tip: Carry local currency for airport transport and small purchases. 10. Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), Thailand Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok is among the largest airports in the world. It covers 32 square kilometres and features: Modern design with vast glass structures Smooth immigration and security process Excellent food courts for travellers Need help rebooking your flights or managing your trip? Airline Help is here for you! Call us at 800-594-4991 (OTA) today. Final Thoughts These top 10 biggest airports in the world not only handle millions of passengers but also serve as gateways to countries and continents. From King Fahd International Airport's massive area to Beijing Daxing Airport's futuristic design, each airport has something unique to offer. Travelling soon? For any flight bookings, cancellations, or changes, Airline Help is just a call away at 800-594-4991 (OTA). Our team ensures your journey remains smooth and stress-free. Quick Recap ✅ King Fahd International Airport, Saudi Arabia ✅ Denver International Airport, USA ✅ Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, USA ✅ Orlando International Airport, USA ✅ Washington Dulles International Airport, USA ✅ Beijing Daxing International Airport, China ✅ George Bush Intercontinental Airport, USA ✅ Shanghai Pudong International Airport, China ✅ Cairo International Airport, Egypt ✅ Suvarnabhumi Airport, Thailand TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Free Malaysia Today
09-07-2025
- Free Malaysia Today
New Aerotrain is up to standard, says Loke
The new Aerotrain at KLIA was built to meet international standards and is operating well, transport minister Loke Siew Fook said. PETALING JAYA : Transport minister Loke Siew Fook has sought to assure the public that KLIA's new Aerotrain service is up to standard, after two apparent disruptions the past week. Loke said the drainage pump that caused the Aerotrain's tunnel to accumulate rainwater this morning was not part of the new rail system infrastructure, but the airport's legacy facilities. 'The incident was neither caused by any weakness in the new Aerotrain system itself, nor because the train 'cannot withstand heavy rain' as some quarters have suggested,' he said in a statement. 'When the pump failed to operate as designed, rainwater accumulated in the tunnel and reached a safety threshold, automatically activating the Aerotrain's safety systems to suspend operations as a precaution.' Loke said the other incident on Wednesday was when the Aerotrain's safety features caused the system to be paused because a passenger was blocking the doors from closing. He said this was to prevent the door from closing forcefully and harming anyone, adding that this was an intentional safety measure built into the new system, which commenced operations on Tuesday. The two incidents 'demonstrate the integrity and reliability of the new Aerotrain's safety systems', he said. 'The new Aerotrain assets at KLIA are built to meet international standards and are operating well.' On Wednesday, Facebook user Ahmad Ramadzan Soid posted that one of the trains had broken down though another was still up and running. Other netizens commented that a passenger had caused the train's door to jam. Today, travel blogger CK Ng posted that the trains were not in service, with passengers being transported to the airport's satellite terminal by bus instead. Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd said one of the drainage pumps had experienced a technical fault amid today's heavy rainfall, preventing the automatic removal of accumulated water. The Aerotrain has been the backbone of KLIA's internal transport network since 1998 but broke down in 2023. Buses were used instead to transport passengers between KLIA Terminal 1 and the satellite terminal, which is mainly for international arrivals and departures. The new Aerotrain service began on July 1, involving three trains with a maximum capacity of 270 passengers each.
Malay Mail
05-07-2025
- Malay Mail
KLIA Aerotrain safety systems working as intended, Loke assures travellers after flood and door incidents
PUTRAJAYA, July 5 — Transport Minister Anthony Loke has assured the public that the new Aerotrain at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 1 is operating smoothly and was built in full compliance with international standards. He said both Malaysia Airports and the Transport Ministry remain committed to enhancing service quality and responding promptly to any issues to ensure a safe, efficient and seamless travel experience. 'I appreciate the public's patience and understanding as we fine-tune operations during this early phase of the new Aerotrain service,' he said in a statement. Earlier, Malaysia Airports confirmed that the KLIA Aerotrain service was temporarily suspended at 11 am today due to water accumulation in the tunnel following heavy rainfall. It stated that the tunnel's drainage system is equipped with pumps specifically designed to manage water ingress during extreme weather conditions. Loke reiterated Malaysia Airports' explanation that this morning's KLIA Aerotrain disruption was caused by a technical fault involving a drainage pump within the airport's existing tunnel infrastructure. He clarified that the faulty pump, part of the airport's legacy system and unrelated to the new Aerotrain replacement programme, had failed to function as intended, leading to rainwater accumulation in the tunnel. 'The water reached a safety threshold, triggering the Aerotrain's safety system to automatically suspend operations as a precautionary measure,' he added. Loke also referred to a separate incident on July 2, when a passenger obstructed the platform doors from closing, triggering the train's safety mechanism to prevent the doors from shutting forcefully. 'This safety response was intentional and appropriate. Both incidents, though regrettable, actually reflect the integrity and reliability of the new Aerotrain's safety systems,' he emphasised. He added that the systems are designed to detect potential hazards and automatically halt operations when necessary, prioritising passenger safety. — Bernama
