MAHB to continue operating country's 39 airports for next 45 years, says Loke

SEPANG: Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) will continue operating the 39 airports under its purview in the country for the next 45 years, says Transport Minister Anthony Loke.

Loke said the operating and land agreements inked between Malaysia Airports and the government would last until 2069, adding that this had been approved in principle by the Cabinet on Feb 2 this year.

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"Through this new agreement, the government will continue allowing Malaysia Airports to operate, manage, maintain and develop 39 airports and short take-off and landing ports (STOLports) until 2069," he said in his speech when attending the agreement signing between Malaysia Airports and the government here on Monday (March 18).

The government was represented by the Transport Ministry and the federal Land and Mines Office.

"The new conditions in the agreement signed allows both the government and Malaysia Airports to implement a more competitive commercial development plan," Loke added.

Of the 39 airports managed by Malaysia Airports, five are international airports, 17 domestic airports and 17 STOLports in Malaysia.

"Through the implementation of a cross-subsidy, all aspects of managing and maintaining the 17 STOLports, which are currently under the government, will be transferred over to Malaysia Airports as well," he said.

He added that the implementation of the new agreement allowed MAHB to develop more efficient long-term development plans for airports under its purview.

"This is taking into account the expertise and experience displayed by Malaysia Airports," he said.

Loke added that the agreement would also allow Malaysia Airport to carry out cooperation with any quarters interested in developing airports.

"I also call on Malaysia Airports to ensure all maintenance aspects across the 39 airports managed to be prioritised.

"This is to ensure airport management services provided by MAHB will be efficient at all times," he said, adding that this includes services such as check-in counters, train and bus services, toilets and baggage, among others.