Dear Editor,
I refer to recent news reports about the delay in getting the Kuala Lumpur International Airport ‘s (KLIA) Aerotrain services up and running. The services were initially scheduled to resume by the end of the month; however, the delay has now become indefinite, drawing the ire of Transport Minister Anthony Loke.
This development must be taken in the context of plans to take Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB) private. It was recently reported that MAHB, which runs 39 airports in the country, is nearing the 90% acceptance threshold for its takeover by the Gateway Development Alliance (GDA).
As a concerned taxpayer and frequent user of Malaysian airports, I sincerely hope the deal goes through. The delay in getting the Aerotrain up and running is a stark reminder about why it should.
For too long, our airports have struggled to keep up with regional standards. The Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), once a source of national pride, has dropped in global rankings. It was the world’s second-best airport in 2001. Now, it is ranked 71st. The broken Aerotrain, dirty washrooms, and long immigration queues have become the norm.
This is not just an inconvenience for travellers. It reflects poorly on Malaysia. Regional competitors like Singapore’s Changi and Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi have invested heavily. Meanwhile, KLIA and other airports have been left behind. Our market share has fallen, and passenger satisfaction is embarrassingly low.
I feel that the GDA’s RM11-per-share offer is fair to shareholders, and this has been attested by many reputable market research houses. Privatisation offers a chance to rebuild and modernise without burdening taxpayers. The consortium, which includes the Employees Provident Fund (EPF), Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA), and Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP), has the financial muscle and technical experience to turn things around for MAHB.
The RM11 allows shareholders an opportunity to cash out at a premium. For taxpayers, it offers hope that our airports can finally turn the corner. Malaysia deserves airports that we can be proud of—that match the ambitions of a nation striving to lead in ASEAN and beyond.
With Malaysia chairing ASEAN in 2025, this issue takes on even greater importance as many world leaders are expected to converge on our soil. As the region’s leader, we need world-class airports that reflect our standing. Improved airports will not only boost tourism but also attract business and investment.
MAHB’s struggles are not new. For years, underinvestment and mismanagement have held the company back. KLIA’s Aerotrain issues alone have been a long-standing embarrassment. Other problems, like poor maintenance and delays in key projects, continue to hurt Malaysia’s image.
For the sake of Malaysian airports, I hope the deal goes through. It is not just about selling shares. It is about fixing what has been broken for too long. It is about putting Malaysia back on the map as a regional leader. Let’s not let this golden opportunity slip away.
By
Vijaya Kumaran,
Malaysia Gazette reader
*This article represents the author’s point of view and does not reflect the editorial stance or principles of Malaysia Gazette.
-MalaysiaGazette
