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A CONSUMER group has called on the government to launch a thorough investigation into repeated operational disruptions at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), citing concerns over system reliability, asset management and long-term maintenance planning.
The Consumers Association of Penang (CAP) said recurring issues involving the aerotrain system and baggage handling operations have raised legitimate questions about the effectiveness of maintenance practices at the country’s main international gateway.
CAP president Mohideen Abdul Kader said the problems should not be attributed solely to preventive maintenance shortcomings, but instead point to wider structural weaknesses in airport management.
“This disruption raises legitimate concerns about the effectiveness of maintenance practices and asset management, but it is too simplistic to attribute it solely to a lack of preventive maintenance,” MalaysiaGazette quoted him saying.
He stressed that KLIA, which has been in operation since 1998 and handles between 60 and 65 million passengers annually, requires a more systematic and comprehensive maintenance framework.
“As the (manager and) operator, Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB), is responsible for routine maintenance, long-term asset planning, timely system upgrades and contractor supervision.
“This recurring pattern of issues shows gaps not only in maintenance but also in overall planning, coordination and execution,” he added.
Mohideen cited a series of recent incidents, including a power disruption in April affecting baggage systems at KLIA Terminal 1, as well as reports of roof leaks, electricity outages and general deterioration of facilities.
He also highlighted disruptions affecting immigration systems last month, including the National Integrated Immigration System (NIISe) and the QR-based MyBorderPass system, which led to manual processing and delays at entry points.
“Water leakage in November last year near the check-in counters also indicates possible weaknesses in contractor procedures, particularly in work in critical areas,” he said.
He urged the government to carry out a comprehensive review of systemic weaknesses at KLIA under MAHB, including procurement processes, vendor performance and asset renewal planning.
“Therefore, the government must thoroughly examine the weaknesses in the KLIA system managed by MAHB, including procurement, vendor performance and asset renewal planning.
“Without timely and firm action, repeated failures will continue to undermine passenger confidence and the reliability of aviation operations,” he said.
The call adds to growing scrutiny over airport service reliability as Malaysia seeks to strengthen its position as a regional aviation hub while managing ageing infrastructure and rising passenger volumes. - May 4, 2026
