Tiong: Airports Set the Tone for Malaysia’s Welcome

11 February 2026

KUALA LUMPUR: The tourist experience begins the moment visitors arrive at Malaysia’s airports, said Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, stressing that airport pricing and services play a critical role in shaping international perceptions of the country.

Speaking at the launch of the ShopLAH Campaign at Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 1 (KLIA1), Tiong said the initiative was more than a shopping campaign, describing it as a reflection of Malaysia’s national image.

He noted that complaints about excessively high food and retail prices at airports tend to leave a lasting negative impression on tourists, an issue he said should not be taken lightly.

Tiong said he had personally listened to feedback from both tourists and local travellers, highlighting concerns over pricing, limited food choices, high rental costs and operational constraints. These issues, he said, must be addressed transparently.

“Airports are not merely commercial spaces, but the main gateways that reflect our values and our concern as a nation,” he said.

To address the matter, Tiong said he had instructed all relevant stakeholders, including airport management and outlet operators, to engage in discussions to identify collective solutions. These include adopting a volume-based approach, offering more reasonable pricing and improving the overall user experience.

He also emphasised the need for Malaysia to be better prepared in terms of airport capacity, facilities and flight connectivity, noting that interest from international airlines is on the rise.

“Malaysia must be ready to seize these opportunities in a more organised and efficient manner,” he said.

Tiong reiterated his commitment to ensuring that issues faced on the ground are not merely highlighted in speeches but translated into concrete action, for the benefit of tourists, citizens and Malaysia’s image on the global stage.