Kuala lumpur: The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) has proposed that Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) explore ways to ensure goods and food sold at airports are priced reasonably. Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing said the ministry had received complaints from tourists and the public over higher prices at airport outlets compared with those outside.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Tiong mentioned having discussions with tenants of the outlets, noting that rental arrangements could be a factor influencing prices. If rental terms can be improved, selling prices could potentially be reduced, and Tiong emphasized that this matter should be further discussed at the management level. This statement was made during the launch of ShopLAH by MAHB, where MAHB managing director Datuk Mohd Izani Ghani was also present.
In addition to pricing concerns, Tiong expressed hope that MAHB would provide more shop lots offering local food, especially with Visit Malaysia Year 2026 on the horizon. This move aims to better promote Malaysian cuisine to both foreign and domestic tourists.
The ShopLAH campaign, as explained by Tiong, is designed to enhance the shopping experience for tourists arriving at the country's main gateways. Meanwhile, Mohd Izani stated that ShopLAH showcases local brands such as Sense of Malaysia, Kapten Batik, and Royal Selangor, which reflect Malaysia's identity while incorporating digital elements through the MYAirports application and collaborations with local artists.
The campaign is being implemented at Kuala Lumpur International Airport as well as MAHB-operated international airports in Penang, Langkawi, Kota Kinabalu, and Kuching. This is part of ongoing efforts to position airports as hubs connecting tourism, business, and national identity.