AIRPORTS NATIONWIDE READY FOR VM2026 ARRIVALS

SEPANG – Airports across Malaysia marked the start of Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VM2026) at midnight on 1 January 2026, with coordinated arrival activities held at 19 airports nationwide, including KL International Airport (KLIA). The “Ambang VM2026” welcome reflected readiness across the airport network to support increased passenger volumes while maintaining consistent service standards at every entry point. 

As the country’s gateway operator, Malaysia Airports has strengthened its network ahead of VM2026 to ensure smooth, reliable and welcoming arrivals, supported by efficient operations and upgraded facilities across both international and domestic airports. 

Malaysia Airports Managing Director Dato’ Mohd Izani Ghani said the Group’s priority during VM2026 is to manage rising traffic volumes while maintaining reliable performance across all airports, “All our airports operate under a coordinated, nationwide framework to ensure the same service standards at every entry point. Our focus is on efficient use of assets, stable operating processes and close coordination with airline partners. This enables us to support connectivity growth, manage peak flows effectively and deliver dependable airport operations that meet international expectations, whether at an international gateway or a domestic airport.” 

Translating this approach into action, airports nationwide underwent targeted upgrades in 2025, with the extensive modernisation of KLIA at the heart of the programme. Across Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, more than 30 improvement initiatives were implemented to support a more seamless and inclusive passenger journey, covering upgraded passenger processing systems, expanded self-service facilities, refreshed public amenities and enhanced commercial offerings. 

Key initiatives included upgraded check-in and open bag drop kiosks, the introduction of a vehicle access management system to improve kerbside traffic flow, 12,500 new passenger trolleys, 100 complimentary wheelchairs and 210 baby strollers, family-friendly washrooms, refurbished open-concept waiting lounges, upgraded surau facilities, and the launch of a Calm Room for Terminal 2 passengers with hidden disabilities. 

Recognising that the VM2026 experience begins at every entry point, Malaysia Airports also accelerated upgrades at other airports, including Penang International Airport, Kota Kinabalu International Airport and selected domestic gateways. Enhancements include the rollout of Self Service Bag Drop, cashless parking systems, escalator upgrades, as well as surau and washroom refurbishments, ensuring consistency in service quality across the network. 

Beyond physical upgrades, VM2026 introduces an enhanced commercial experience across Malaysia Airports’ network. Retail and food and beverage offerings have been expanded to include a wider mix of local and international brands, experiential pop-ups, and travel essentials. Highlights include collaborations with LEGO through themed activations and exclusive offerings, as well as the refreshed Licence to Win campaign, now extended to include non-shoppers. New outlets such as Arabica, Läderach, Fred’s, Rituals and Charlotte Tilbury at Terminal 2 further enhance choice and convenience, while showcasing Malaysian creativity and elevating the airport experience from arrival to departure. 

In parallel with passenger-facing enhancements, Malaysia Airports has also strengthened its airline engagement strategy to support air connectivity growth through incentives for new and expanding routes. These efforts are complemented by Tourism Malaysia’s Geran Sepadan Penerbangan dan Charter (GSPC) under Budget 2026, which enables airlines to undertake overseas marketing and promotional activities to drive inbound tourism through scheduled and charter flights. 

As Visit Malaysia 2026 unfolds, Malaysia Airports continues to work closely with the Ministry of Transport, the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture and industry stakeholders to align airport operations with national tourism objectives. These coordinated efforts ensure that every arrival delivers a seamless and efficient introduction to the country, reflecting both global standards and Malaysia’s distinctive hospitality.