NACC 2025 Focuses On Govt Commitment To Turn Malaysia Into Cargo Aviation Hub

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 27 (Bernama) – The government’s initiatives and commitment to develop four airports in the country into cargo aviation hubs were the focus of the National Aviation Consultative Council (NACC) 2025 meeting, according to the Transport Ministry.

In a statement, the ministry said the four airports are Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), Penang International Airport, Kota Kinabalu International Airport, and Senai International Airport.

“This initiative is influenced by the positive year-on-year growth of 4.4 per cent in cargo volume handled by airports in Malaysia in the second quarter of 2025 (2Q 2025) totalling 272,939 tonnes, compared to 261,385 tonnes in the same period in 2024.

“Of the 272,939 tonnes in 2Q 2025, 60,770 tonnes or 22.3 per cent was domestic cargo, 202,911 tonnes or 74.3 per cent was international cargo, and the remaining 9,258 tonnes or 3.4 per cent was transit cargo,” the ministry said.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke chaired the meeting which was attended by 95 top leaders from ministries, departments, federal government agencies, and key industry players in the national aviation sector, including airport operators, airlines, ground handlers, aviation worker unions and other stakeholders.

The NACC was established as a platform for aviation industry players and stakeholders to discuss industry challenges, find solutions and create a conducive environment to improve operational efficiency and service quality.

The meeting also discussed and decided on several follow-up actions to resolve issues, including a review of the implementation of the Green Lane to address congestion during inspections by the Royal Malaysian Customs Department at KLIA Terminal 1 and 2, as well as improvements in airport slot management by the National Slot Coordination Malaysia.

Other decisions made include the establishment of a task force for the baggage handling system replacement project to monitor progress with regular reporting to the Transport Ministry. Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) is also required to provide regular updates to ensure airport development projects are implemented according to schedule.

Meanwhile, accessibility between Terminal 1 and 2, including passenger and baggage connectivity in the airside area between KLIA Terminal 1 and 2, will be developed by MAHB to ensure continuous connectivity.

The Transport Ministry also emphasised the government's commitment to supporting the global sustainability agenda and addressing climate change, in line with the International Civil Aviation Organisation’s long-term goal to achieve net-zero carbon emissions for international aviation by 2050.

“In line with the proposed introduction of a mandate on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) blending, led by the Plantation and Commodities Ministry, the Transport Ministry encourages more engagement sessions with all parties involved, especially national airlines, to ensure the implementation of SAF does not negatively impact the competitiveness of the country's aviation sector.

“Decarbonisation of the aviation sector requires a whole-of-nation approach. It involves the government, airlines, airport operators, air traffic service providers and the industry to enable Malaysia to achieve its aspiration of becoming a regional sustainable aviation hub,” the ministry said.

— BERNAMA