PETALING JAYA: Khazanah Nasional Bhd says the Public Accounts Committee’s (PAC) recommendations on Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd
(MAHB) reinforce the broader objective that guided the privatisation of MAHB, which is to strengthen Malaysia's aviation sector by improving connectivity, enhancing passenger experience and reinforcing the competitiveness of local airports.
Khazanah said it “welcomes” the recommendations by the PAC. It also noted that many of these recommendations align with measures that MAHB and relevant stakeholders have already put in place or are now reinforcing to improve operational performance, stakeholder engagement, oversight and service quality across Malaysia’s airport network.
“Khazanah supports the PAC’s call for closer collaboration across the aviation ecosystem. The success of Malaysia's airports depends on strong cooperation and alignment between airport operators, airlines, regulators, government agencies and other industry stakeholders. Only through such collaboration can airport development remain responsive to operational requirements, passenger needs and the nation's long-term connectivity aspirations,” it said in a statement.
Khazanah managing director Datuk Amirul Feisal Wan Zahir said the objective of taking MAHB private was about creating the conditions for long-term transformation by enabling sustained investment, operational excellence and continuous improvement across Malaysia's airport network.
“Stronger airports and connectivity are critical enablers of trade, investment, tourism and business activity, and play an important role in strengthening Malaysia's economic competitiveness in an increasingly competitive region,” he said.
Amirul Feisal said the task ahead for MAHB is significant and lasting transformation will take time and that it is encouraged by MAHB's commitment to learn from global best practices and leverage international expertise, while pursuing continuous improvement with discipline and consistency.
“We are already seeing improvements in the passenger experience, but delivering the broader economic benefits will require sustained investment, strong execution and close collaboration across the aviation ecosystem,” he said.
Khazanah said MAHB continues to operate within an established governance and regulatory framework, with oversight by the relevant authorities and mechanisms to monitor performance, service quality and major capital projects.
“As a shareholder, Khazanah supports the PAC’s recommendations, including those on enhanced reporting structures, and remains committed to upholding high standards across the board, from procurement and project delivery to performance tracking and integrity,” it added.
The PAC, which released its report after 19 proceedings and a site visit to KLIA Terminal 1, had called for stronger oversight of MAHB following its privatisation.
The PAC said MAHB must continue to be closely monitored as airports remain strategic national assets. Its inquiry focused on KLIA's operational performance, transformation efforts, and delays to key infrastructure projects, including the Aerotrain service and baggage handling system.
Amongst its recommendations, the PAC recommended additional reporting requirements from MAHB to maintain transparency. It also pointed out that years of insufficient maintenance, delayed corrective actions and limited capital investment had contributed to declining service quality at major airports. Notably, the PAC highlighted the ongoing issues involving the Aerotrain upgrade and the baggage handling system upgrade which remains in progress.
