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front, it is implementing solutions to make the shopping experience seamless and efficient. “Our retail partner, Eraman, has introduced self-checkout kiosks in its duty free outlets to speed up transactions,” says Hani Ezra. “The upcoming RFID technology will further enhance this, making shopping quick and easy. To bridge the gap between online and in-store shopping, Eraman is also launching a Click & Collect e-commerce platform in Q1 2026. This will allow travellers to shop online and conveniently pick up their purchases at the airport, creating a truly integrated omnichannel experience. These innovations are transforming our airports into seamless, exciting destinations that travellers will love.” KLIA’s year-round festive campaigns transform the terminal into a stage for cultural storytelling and immersive experiences. In collaboration with the National Archives, the Hanya Dikau pop-up celebrated P. Ramlee with recreated film sets and a lifelike hologram of the legend greeting visitors. “With Kraftangan Malaysia, Jalinan Aidilfitri: Pesona Kraf Tekstil showcased a Rumah Kampung Limas draped in batik, songket, and tenun, complemented by batik-canting sessions and an AR wau batik animation soaring across the terminal backdrop,” Hani Ezra explains. “Riang Riuh Raya with Jepah Studio turned the terminal into a comic-style kampung wonderland with workshops and performances, while Lunar New Year’s Oriental Rendezvous channelled the charm of Old Shanghai with a Malaysian twist. Last year’s Christmas campaign, Alice’s Adventures: A Magical Christmas, was inspired by Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, featuring the whimsical Rabbit Hole Kaleidoscope Room where passengers could step inside a captivating, imaginary world. This year, we have an exciting new campaign with a very much-loved board game to bring the spirit of wonder and family together.” Elevating the airport experience ahead of Visit Malaysia Year 2026 At Malaysia Airports, infrastructure development is closely aligned with commercial strategy to drive retail growth. At KLIA Terminal 1, the full refurbishment of all duty free outlets including Eraman, Dimensi, DR Group, Valiram and PBH Duty Free has introduced refreshed layouts, and interactive walkthrough emporiums designed to boost engagement and dwell time. “Lease- line extensions have been implemented to optimise space usage and enhance storefront visibility, encouraging higher passenger spend,” says Hani Ezra. “Facility upgrades such as car park automation and improved passenger flow infrastructure also support a more seamless journey, allowing passengers more time in commercial zones. These retail enhancements are supported by broader developments such as the new Aerotrain, which improves connectivity and shortens the time it takes for passengers to reach their boarding gates, giving themmore time to shop and dine in the airport.” As it prepares for Visit Malaysia Year 2026, MAHB is putting passenger comfort, convenience, and inclusivity at the forefront. At KLIA, recent upgrades include optimised security screening for quicker processing, new wheelchairs and baggage trolleys, and enhanced prayer rooms. Families can enjoy improved amenities such as the integrated washrooms, dedicated baby care rooms, and family parking. Cultural highlights like the Heritage Lanes and Songket Wall welcome travellers with Malaysia’s rich traditions from the moment they arrive. Complementing to this experience, Hani Ezra adds that in line with the values of today’s travellers, MAHB will encourage the use of an exclusive duty free shopping bag, designed by a local artist and made from recycled materials, as part of the Visit Malaysia Year 2026 programme, where offerings are curated to reflect the many facets of Malaysian culture. “We will also spotlight a series of brand-led initiatives that showcase how our retail partners are embracing sustainability, giving travellers more opportunities to shop responsibly while enjoying a richer, more memorable airport experience.” Through @shopmyairports and campaign content, MAHB provides sneak peeks into new store openings, product highlights and limited time promotions. “Influencer collaborations also play a key role, helping us reach younger, travel savvy audiences with engaging, relatable storytelling around airport shopping and dining,” Hani Ezra explains. “By aligning our retail and digital strategies to specific demographics and behaviours, we are creating more meaningful, relevant experiences that reflect both global trends and local sensibilities.” A special mix of Malaysia’s heart and soul with global brands At KLIA, MAHB creates a special mix of Malaysia’s heart and soul with global brands that travellers know and love. The food scene includes 40% local Malaysian flavours, like traditional delicacies, and 60% international cuisines to suit every palate. Sense of Malaysia stores, found at KLIA, Langkawi, Penang, Kota Kinabalu, and Kuching, bring over 50 local brands to life, from Kapten Batik’s stylish designs to Royal Selangor’s iconic pewter gifts, sharing authentic Malaysian stories. At the same time, KLIA Terminal 1’s Eraman Duty-Free Mall offers over 550 global brands. “We also sprinkle in cultural touches like the Penang and Melaka Heritage Walls, perfect for snapping photos, so travellers feel Malaysia’s vibe while browsing world-class shops,” Hani Ezra shares. “Fun, Instagram-worthy spots like Penang and Melaka Heritage Walls and an Orangutan-themed kids’ playground add a playful vibe. This balance celebrates our heritage and delivers the global appeal travellers expect.” MAHB works with its retail partners to make the airport experience truly unforgettable for travellers. On the technology At Malaysia Airports, infrastructure development is closely aligned with commercial strategy to drive retail growth. As it prepares for Visit Malaysia Year 2026, MAHB is putting passenger comfort, convenience, and inclusivity at the forefront. Tuesday 30 September 2025 32 T F W A D A I L Y