Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) confirmed that the Penang International Airport (PIA) expansion will be completed by June 2028. The RM1.55 billion project will increase the airport’s annual passenger handling capacity from 6.5 million to 12 million. Construction is progressing in three phases—Phase One involves relocating key government offices, Phase Two focuses on apron expansion, and Phase Three, covering terminal upgrades, is in the final design stage. MAHB expects board approval and contractor appointment by the end of 2025.
MAHB also secured federal approval for expanding Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA), which is nearing its 9 million passenger limit. Plans are underway to raise KKIA’s capacity to 12 million, with contractor selection targeted for December. Upgrades for tier-two airports in Tawau, Miri, and Kota Bharu are progressing, with Kota Bharu’s Phase One already complete and Phase Two set for early 2026. Meanwhile, discussions are ongoing over Sarawak’s proposal for a new airport in Kuching, with MAHB holding priority management rights under its federal agreement. The company is also exploring new partnerships for Subang Airport as Firefly may exit and AirAsia operations shift to KLIA Terminal 2.
