High Airport Prices Under Fire: Malaysian Tourism Minister Calls for Cost Review
KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysia’s Tourism, Arts, and Culture Minister, Tiong King Sing, has issued a firm call to Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB) to tackle the rising tide of complaints regarding the “exorbitant” prices of food and retail goods across the nation’s gateways.
Speaking at the launch of the ShopLAH retail campaign at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 1 on Tuesday, Tiong highlighted that the steep cost of essential items—including food, chocolates, and alcohol—is becoming a burden for travelers, particularly those moving in large family groups.
Rental Rates as a Barrier
The Minister revealed that discussions with airport vendors pointed to a common culprit: high operational overheads. many outlet operators cited steep rental rates as the primary reason they are unable to lower their prices to match those found outside the airport.
“This issue can impact the retail business here in the airport,” Tiong stated. “I have suggested that a review of rental rates and related costs could help operators lower their prices. This matter must be discussed further at the management level.”
He further encouraged business owners to shift their strategy toward a high-volume, low-margin model, suggesting that selling more items at a lower price point could result in higher overall profits while improving the airport’s reputation.
First Impressions and Visit Malaysia 2026
With Visit Malaysia 2026 on the horizon, the Ministry is emphasizing the importance of the airport as the “first impression” of the country. Tiong urged MAHB to prioritize local identity by offering more shop lots dedicated to authentic Malaysian cuisine from various states.
“Food remains one of the main attractions for travelers,” he noted, adding that maintaining cleanliness and fair pricing is essential to ensuring a positive visitor experience.
Enhancing the Passenger Experience
To mitigate the impact of high costs and encourage spending, MAHB is introducing new digital incentives:
- The Tourist Privilege Card: A digital rewards program accessible via the MYAirports app.
- Exclusive Discounts: Starting in March, cardholders will gain access to special treats, discounts, and limited-edition duty-free merchandise.
- Experiential Travel: The ShopLAH campaign aims to transform airport transit into a more engaging retail experience rather than just a waiting period.
The move marks a strategic shift as Malaysia prepares for a massive influx of tourists, ensuring that the country’s main entry points are competitive, welcoming, and affordable.
