I wanna take a break from writing about silly things on the net to focus on something slightly more serious.
Over the past few weeks, there have been some intense debate online and offline over AirAsia's intention to build their own airport.
The gist of the story so far is, due to AirAsia's rapid expansion, it is fast outgrowing the current LCCT airport it is operating out of. So AirAsia approached Sime Darby and a proposal was put forth to the government to build a new budget airport called KLIA East.
The new airport will be completely funded by private funds, and it will be located 20km to the east of the present KLIA in the Negri Sembilan town of Labu. Not only will this new airport be able to accommodate AirAsia's growing size, it will also be better connected by road and rail to both KL city and main airport.
The government had a look at the proposal and subsequently approved it, but almost immediately a huge uproar from the public resulted.
Some were saying that the proposed Labu Airport will be located too close to KLIA to be safe. Others were saying that it is located too far from KLIA for transferring of passengers to be convenient. Most people were saying that it is a waste of money for a fourth airport in KL to be built after Subang, KLIA and LCCT - never mind the fact that AirAsia assured that not a single sen of tax payer's money will be used.
Then there are those who resort to insults and personal attacks, slandering both AirAsia boss Tony Fernandes and the government, accusing them for being corrupted and uncaring towards the ordinary Malaysian.
Among the fiercest critics of AirAsia's plans were several prominent social-political bloggers including Jeff Ooi, Rocky and PKR MP Wee Choo Keong. Even our former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir got nasty with his words, eventhough he is that very same man who sold AirAsia to Tony Fernandes for RM1 eight years ago when the airline was making huge losses under DRB-HiCom.
The outcry from the online community was so loud that someone even set up an online campaign to boycott AirAsia.
Faced with such intense and public online controversy, AirAsia did something remarkably unprecedented in Malaysia.
While most corporations would've kept quiet and carried on with their business (after all they have already got the proposal approved), AirAsia decided to respond to their critics, sceptics and haters by launching a micro-site on KLIA East. Providing facts and figures, AirAsia tactfully explained the need to build a new airport and showed how such a project would bring more benefits than harm to the rakyat.
To anyone reading through the FAQs, it is clear that AirAsia is pointing a large Airbus-sized finger squarely towards Malaysia Airports Berhad, the sole operator of the three airports in Kuala Lumpur.
AirAsia said that all three airports are not suitable because Subang is too small, KLIA is too expensive and LCCT is not expanding fast enough to cater towards their rapid growth. AirAsia is pretty much forced out due to the incompetence of Malaysia Airports.
To much surprise from everybody, Malaysia Airports did not sit still when faced with criticism either. Instead, they launched a series of announcements on their own website to rebuff AirAsia's claims. Normally, people can't be care less to log on to Malaysia Airports website. But because of this fiasco, web traffic at malaysiaairports.com.my suddenly shot through the roof!
According to Malaysia Airports, there are indeed plans to develop KLIA North, a dedicated budget terminal located just next to the existing KLIA main terminal.
The only problem it'll take longer to build and estimated to cost twice as much compared to KLIA East. Therefore it is AirAsia's fault that they are impatient and instead run off to build their own airport.
So to summarised what has happened, Dr Mahathir points his finger to AirAsia on his website, AirAsia points its finger to Malaysia Airports on their website, Malaysia Airports claimed innocence and pointed its finger back to AirAsia.
And I thought "blog wars" are the domain of bored teenagers who got nothing better to do with their lives. Who would've thought a "blog war" would occur between AirAsia, Malaysia Airports and the former Prime Minister of Malaysia?
Reading through some of the harsh comments online, I honestly cannot help but to feel terribly sorry for Tony Fernandes.
I can see that AirAsia's intentions are noble.
Tony Fernandes wants to build a cost-efficient airport, so that savings can be passed onto the consumers. He wants a large airport so that AirAsia can connect Malaysia to the rest of the world, so that Kuala Lumpur can usurp Bangkok and Singapore as South East Asia's aviation hub. Tony Fernandes truly believes that this project is good for everybody, and he has even worked out a way to do these without spending much of tax-payer's money. KLIA East seems like such a great win-win solution for everybody.
But instead of being lauded and praised for taking the initiative to bring about positive change to KL, Tony Fernandes was attacked, insulted and ridiculed by the online community. Instead of getting even a little bit of appreciation and thank you's from the community, he was accused of undermining national interest, of robbing people's money to achieve his own selfish aims.
For a businessman as far-sighted as he is, the ugly fallout from this incident is perhaps something he had least expected.
And that is why I felt compelled to write something here to show my support for Tony Fernandes.
Then again, who am I?
I am not a politician. I am not a businessman. I am just a 26-year-old guy with a naive understanding of the world. No where am I ANYWHERE near the calibre of Jeff Ooi and Rocky, let alone that of Tun Dr Mahathir.
If there is one credential I have over them, it is the fact that I have used the LCCT airport more frequently than all three of them combined. That's a fact, because I have been travelling in and out of LCCT so frequently, I see the immigration officers there more often than I see my mom's face.
I am a consumer. And the only thing I can say about the LCCT is that it sucks. The airport sucks so bad, we could've make more money if we market it as a porn star.
Make no mistake about it. I hated it when AirAsia moved out of KLIA four years ago, and I am still hating it every single day until today. The LCCT is such an overcrowded slum that if the fare difference isn't much, I'd rather pay extra to fly MAS.
Gimme the frills of checking in at KL Sentral and riding KLIA Express anytime.
Clearly AirAsia cannot stay in the current LCCT. So that leaves us with two options: (1) move to Malaysia Airports' KLIA North, or (2) let AirAsia build their own airport at KLIA East.
On the surface, KLIA North sounds like an ideal option. I too, would've supported AirAsia moving back into KLIA or at least somewhere close to it. But due to problems with the soil and the train tracks, it will take twice as long to build and cost twice as much. As consumers, are you prepared to pay extra for that? Do you all want to pay more for your air tickets?
If they wanna develop KLIA North, they could've done so four years ago before the current LCCT is constructed.
Building KLIA North apparently will involve a significant portion of taxpayer's money. OUR money. Money that could be better spent on things like education, healthcare and luxury mansions of corrupt politicians.
Now, compare that with KLIA East, which can be constructed ready in two year's time and won't even cost the government a single sen. While other cities in Malaysia on their knees are begging for an airport, AirAsia is willing to give one to KL free of charge!
Please remind me why are we having this debate again?
True, people do not like redundancy - having two set of control towers, immigration and customs instead of one is wasteful. But come on, if you wanna talk about redundancy, why don't you talk about how many redundant shopping malls we have in KL first? Why not shut down Subang and move Firefly and Berjaya to KLIA?
People are scared AirAsia may compromise safety to save costs. For example, instead of building airport runways, AirAsia might land on Amber Chia's chest.
But are these rational fears? Why would AirAsia wanna compromise on their unblemished safety record? To put it simply, it is bad business for any airline to crash their planes.
Of course, as private entities, profit-making is their primary aim. But the intense competition between the two airlines has virtually left them no room for errors and plenty for improvement. These airlines know that if they screw up, we the consumers will switch to their competitor just like that.
Letting AirAsia build their own airport is sure to bring the already fiery and intense competition between the two to yet another level. Don't forget that at the end of the day, the one benefiting the most out of these competition is us. Don't we all want cheaper fares?
The next question people would wanna ask is: why is Kenny Sia writing all these? How much did AirAsia pay kennysia.com?
The answer is zero.
AirAsia has not paid me a single cent to write anything for them. In fact, AirAsia has never even advertised on kennysia.com.
On the contrary, their direct competitor Malaysia Airlines is among my biggest advertisers. For me to write this entry, I am risking not just having AirAsia critics attack me, I am also risking my website's revenue stream.
But I am saying what needs to be said.
And the reason I am writing this is because I feel that maybe Malaysians can get a bit too negative sometimes. There are FAR wasteful and controversial government projects in Malaysia that warrant our attention, like the CIQ Complex in Johor and the Bakun Dam in Sarawak. Yet I cannot help but feel that in this particular instance we are beating up the good guys.
Something is very wrong here.
Airlines like MAS and AirAsia, in my mind, are doing a great service for this country. For that, they deserve our commendation. But what I am seeing here is that instead of supporting them, we are beating them up with a stick.
It's like helping a fallen girl off the floor, then getting wrongfully accused for molesting.
That is why as a frequent flier, I am throwing my support behind AirAsia to construct KLIA East @ Labu.
Because I believe Malaysians should not be so pessimistic and negative about everything. Because competition is good for the consumers. Because if AirAsia can do what Malaysia Airports do, but in a way that's faster, cheaper and more efficient, then for us consumers the choice is clear.
Don't say no to KLIA East.
Supporting this project is the way to go.
I support KLIA East @ Labu too. Its location is more convenient than the LCCT. Furthermore, the KTM Komuter branch line will provide budget travelers with a cheaper and more convenient form of transport to KL Sentral. ERL costs RM35 but KTM Komuter may charge RM12 or less. And it's more comfortable than the RM9 bus from LCCT.
KTM Komuter hmm? I wonder how long the journey would take.
I just checked. Fare from KL Sentral to Labu is RM5.10 and to Seremban is RM6. Should KTM Komuter offer a normal service, the fare would be below RM6 which would make it even cheaper than the buses.
Have you actually taken KTM Komuter b4? Do you know how it sucks? In Malaysia only the ERL has the best track record in terms of punctuality and comfort. Even the LRTs are nowhere close.
Yes, I have used KTM Komuter before. That's why I suggested the express service. (See below comments) A 20 minute wait for that train isn't that bad. KLIA Transit comes every 30 minutes mind you.
For or Against is for Citizens to decide, but know this people:
The experience with Private Funded Airports in other countries is "Extra HIDDEN Charges" which will rival the advertised Air-Fare, everything will be geared for PROFIT, these people will charge you for breaking-wind if they can, and Employment Standards will drop to accomodate Minimum-Wage, including Security.
If it is needed Govt should build it in the National Interest.
I smell rat. Propaganda paid post. Can you swear this is written from the heart and not paid in any direct/indirect way?
I knew people would be suspicious.
I swear. I am not paid a single cent either directly or indirectly by AirAsia.
This is why when a supposedly personal blog turns into a commercial one, credibility is lost. Although, this may not be a paid post, AirAsia has undoubtedly given Kenny Sia business in the past.
Unprofessional post as it is clearly a conflict of interest. Add to that, Kenny Sia is definitely not an authority to talk about this, so this is a blatant attempt at shoe polishing.
What business have AirAsia given me in the past? Would you like to advise, because I do not seem to recall. Search back at my archives and you'll see that Malaysia Airlines has given me more business in the past compared to AirAsia.
Hi all,
This is Kenny's blog, he doesn't need to explain to you whether this is paid or not.
I think this blog is well-said and make sense. Please use you mind to think about the items written instead of criticizing at whether Kenny is getting paid :S
yeappp, agreed.this is HIS blog and kenny sia is able to write whatever he wants and to share his opinion but therefore u guys are suspecting him!
And WHAT gives you the authority to judge ? You have a brain , USE IT !
I dun care what rat any readers smell, and I dun really like kenny sia's advert much, but truth is to be told, if Air Asia is using their own money, why bother criticizing? Plus it does benefits us.
Look at it this way, without Air Asia, MAS will still with their ego bigger than the airbus or even the blackhole. Crushin their competition by denying/restricting them airports is just a dirt cheap tactic.
But then again, MAS did not really stop them. Those who point their fingers should have their fingers chooped off!!
Totally agree with you. Smelling rat too! Perhaps he will get a VVIP status and 99% discount for life when flying AirAsia......
why you guys hate kenny sia yet still reading his blog? Weird people.
There are people who criticize AirAsia and of course there are people that support them. Opposing views often appear, and i don't see what is wrong to agree with building KLIA East in this case.
Rat or no Rat, Paid or not.
His post and reasoning does make sense.
I think Sime Darby is a government-owned company.. If Sime Darby is partner-ing with AirAsia, isnt it the rakyat's money that they're using?
Please think with your Business Sense. Sime Darby has many other investments, and if its investment generates profitable income, the dividends will be distributed to its shareholders as well, of which EPF is one of them, and you are ONE of them benefitting from it. With Tony Fernandes great business acumen, I am confident that this will be another great success by AirAsia!
F**K you la.. go read someone elses blog... budak jeles
i am die hard kenny sia fan !
Just like you are a Kenny Sia fan that he is a Air Asia fan. Pretty much biased.
Great article Kenny
Tony Fernandes has really paid you a large sum amount of money to back him up, won't he. Everybody know la Kenny how close you are with Tony.
I am not a blind customer. I respect Tony Fernandes and Idris Jala as inspirational businessmen, but I have no loyalty towards either. I fly both AirAsia and MAS regularly, whichever provides me a better value.
Like I said, MAS and Firefly are both advertisers on kennysia.com, AirAsia is not. I would not have written this entry if I were not passionate about it.
As a businessman, I respect Tony as well. It is very inspirational how he negotiate with China, fight with other Airline to open up more flights to China with Low to None Parking and maintenance fee in China's Airports...
Also the Prepaid Credit Card - Tune Money. Great service that brought to Malaysian. Credit Card charge high interests due to high defer rate from holders and merchants. With Prepaid? OMG, he is genius!
I'm also very keen to know who are providing the private funding.
EPF?
Youre funny. Why do you think air asia joined forces with sime darby?
Guess who owns a sizeable portion of sime darby. Follow the money trail. Despite shortcomings of LCCT, it is still cheaper to expand i than to built a new one.
Private funding comes from somewhere. Where is it coming from?
Sime-Darby indeed is a GLC. But a GLC is not a government department like JPJ or a government agency like the MACC. A GLC is not there to spend taxpayer's money and expect nothing in return. A GLC is a company owned in part or in full by the government to ensure investments made with taxpayers money generate good returns, so that these (in theory) can be channeled back to the rakyat in the form of development and infrastructure.
A GLC's money is NOT the same as tax payer's money. We cannot say KLIA East is built with tax-payer's money because the money did not come from the Ministry of Transport, but from Sime-Darby.
Yes. Theoretically, it is cheaper to expand an airport but to build a new one. In practice though, theory hardly ever follows. ;) Especially if the soil is too soft, if the ERL track gets in the way and the airport operator takes too long to respond.
Once all these costs are added to the bill, it may be cheaper to build a new airport than to expand an existing one.
Ah...ur getting there. So if Sime Darby is paying, Where is the money coming from? Don't tell me that Sime Darby so smart using their own money from their own account to fund this?
They have to use someone's else money to fund it. And guess who going to cough up the $$$? And especially who is going to guarantee the loan.
What if Sime Darby has cash reserve? What if Sime Darby is indeed paying the airport with money from their own account?
Where is the money coming from? Well, why don't you look it up? ;)
I looked up Wikipedia and it seems like Sime Darby is already pretty successful in several ventures in the palm oil industry, real estate (they built Ara Damansara), and motoring (they own Auto Bavaria). I'm pretty sure all these businesses have generated enough profit for them over the years to build up a substantial cash reserve. It is with these cash reserve that they can invest in new projects, like the proposed Labu Airport.
I can't speak on behalf of Sime Darby of course. But looking at it form a business perspective, I am pretty sure that is the case.
Any businessmen out there care to offer any alternative explanation?
I'm all for transparency. I'm waiting with suspense for them to announce how this "private" funding works. If they can or dare to tell how they go about this so called "private" funding.
Again, i highly doubt they will dip to their own reserve with Sime's current performance and current economic climate. I guess its up to AirAsia/Sime Darby to reveal otherwise so i can put my foot in my own mouth.
I'm all for the airport if they can prove/show us how this "private" funding will not come from the public's money at all.
Irregardless MAHB problems, these are human / relations / bureaucracy issues that can be resolved by Govt intervention without having to build another airport. A RM 10 billion airport not fully utilised is an utter waste.
Come on, Sime Darby had already attempted to get the IJN. This clearly shows that they have the financial capability to take on such ambitious projects
Base on your same logic, why don't you say something about the highways? How much our government paid to those companies? Those are really our money.
kenny leong is a sore loser trying to get some pity fame here...
i'm sad if i'm your papa....
poor kenny leong.. MAS paid you to sabo ar ?
I am all in for this project,
thou I do not live in malaysia anymore but after my previous flight from perth to lcct i was shocked that we were "welcomed" home in a SHED.. a METAL SHED thats nothing more but ...SHED... i was pleased enough by the comfort and service of air asia X (come on.. you pay 2 - 3 times less compared to MAS - so you have no grounds to complain)
new airport is definitely needed in the near future, if airasia is happy to spend the money to build one let them do it. unless airport malaysia is too busy worrying about the loss of revenue when airasia eventually move out of their "land"
I thought the new airport called Rakyat airport or sort of? I do received AirAsia emails about it too.
Well, as a consumer myself, I do support this project. Both MAS and AirAsia are good airlines in Malaysia. But for moderate family like me can only afford AirAsia instead of MAS.
I wonder why they so forking against AirAsia? Why they dint even against the useless Second Bridge of Penang which is totally waste of money than this project?
Competitors will only improve their services when there's competition. Get this in your mind...
My point exactly.
Although I am very much against them calling it "The Rakyat's Terminal". That's about as pompous as me calling kennysia.com "The Rakyat's Blog".
Sounds kinda like The Rock, "The People's Champion".
What guarantees do we have that KLIAEast@Labu will be a better LCCT than the current one in Sepang? After all, remember that AirAsia always complains that the charges at KLIA is too expensive. Money has to come from somewhere.... if it's from Sime Darby, it's a GLC, which is indeed the people's money.
you will then know. at least there is a competition. now u hv nothing to compare.
Hello.... do you live in Penang Island or Seberang Perai? If your answer is yes... I believe you do not drive at all...
Current Penang bridge is OVERLOADED leh!!! Even Non-peak hours still have heavy traffic!!!
Second bridge is essential, but not under previous budget, which is ridiculously over-estimated!
Think again pls!
Come on. The goverment has to put a stop to this. Building another LCCT is wasteful. Why cant Sime Darby help fund the expansion of the current LCCT and be given a stake in MAHB.Just bcos there is no tax payers money involved doesnt mean v should idlely standby n watch them b wasteful.
As for kennysia being paid for this acticle, there is no reason to speculate.doesnt matter if he was paid or not. its his website n by extension his opinion.
sometimes won't get a seats in ktm lar ...
what will happen to the LCCT? abandoned? what a waste of money
It's not your money
u r plain wrong. it is our money. unless u r a foreigner
if AirAsia is out of LCCT, then there'll be places for other budget airlines to land as well... in that case, more competitions, lower fares.. yeah.. i think
I don't remember paying for it...
they're called taxes you fucking idiot.
wau. every once in a while when you go serious, you do really make a lots of sense.
you really gonna make something in the history of malaysia one fine day =)
ergo, i'm concurring kenny!
Airasia can instead build a new low cost airpot in Penang. Why Labu?? Just bcos Penang is under DAP, Airasia and the gov abandon Penang?
omg now THAT is one hell of an asinine comment. wtf.
HELLO of course you build it as close to kl as possible!!!!! penang WTF. got airport already la you think penang very big issit =.=
Yeah, what will happen to the old one?
I flew in their big liner from KL to Melb recently, not too bad really. Worth every ringgit I paid for.
Nice post. Like your tung-tung-chiang firecrackers background btw.
Plan ahead. Once KLIA East @ Labu is done, LCCT may go through refurbishment to better serve the future budget airlines. But for this to work, KLIA East @ Labu must not be an AirAsia-only airport.
Kenny, great argument. You have me sold. I have not been following the actual arguments previously, but now I see your logic here. Voice from an actual user always carries the greatest weight. I will support KLIA East from now.
why are we even making noise? the ones benefiting are us. :)
I seriously object the Labu low cost terminal!
If talk about saving traveling cost for consumers, why not build in North or East, the population for 4 states in North easily more then Center, the Northern people do not need to travel to LCCT just for transit. The cost savings for these people not only RM35 or RM5.10 or RM9... but also the hours of time.
Kenny, widen you view and don't just try to make friend with Tony blindly.
Happy New Year!
You are the one who need to widen the views.. Why build airport at north or east if the demand is so so so so so much lesser? build airport there for a few cats to fly?
The population might be more, but the one matters is the demand. Kenny flies 100 times per year, but those citizen may only fly once in 10 years.. population more, so what?
I just don understand why there's people just like to be negative. Cannot blame anyone actually, the top is slanted, so will be the bottom.
hey loser, population more will mean more demand. no population = no demand.
Unless your definiton of demand comes from "Ghost".
WTF?
Population and demand is 2 different things.. If the population is so huge at the north the east, why there's less LV Hermes Gucci shops than KL, why less computer shops? why less IT firms? It's the same concept. The demand is high at KL that's why more supply. We can forgive stupid peoples, but for being stupid and still want to talk loud, that's a big time joke.
Anyway, I looked stupid now also, as I am entertaining uneducated and uncivilised person. Should keep my mouth shut.
i like what u said :) nway just wanna tell u well said my friend
Dude.. I love ur comment
Holy.. you don even know what is demand... Please don be stupid and be civilized.
Population and demand is 2 different things. If the population is more in the north and the east and you stated, then why there's more LV Gucci Hermes shops in KL? why more IT firms in KL? why more mega complexs in KL? It's because the demand is higher, then there's supply. If demand is high at those areas you stated, sure there will be supply. People wants to make money of course.. Unless you want people to build one airport to fly a few cats.
Anyway I looked stupid now as well for entertaining uncivilized and uneducated comments.
Hello Leonard, Popolation More = Demand? hahahahaha.. this is a joke, Can a Ferrari be sold in a Highly Populated place? Can it? Does it mean the demand for Ferrari will be high if the population is high? Use your BRAIN!!! Depending on the types of services & Products, Population does not equal Demand!!!!! duuuh
what a genius !! where do you learn the "demand = population" theory from ??? Are you a kid ??
Leonard the f*cked up economist,
Population does not equal to demand.
If there is a big population... but they don't have $$$, then they would not have BUYING POWER. Without buying power, there could not be demand.
We all know there are big population in the northern states, no doubt. I'm not suggesting northern folks don't have $$$ & buying power. No offence to anyone also.
But the people who has the $$$ & buying power are travelling in
& out through central states. People DEMANDED to use their $$$ & buying power in central states.
Therefore, demands create need. And NEED is answered with SUPPLY. Airports are built in central zones to meet the DEMAND.
Thus, this is actually how the demand & supply actually works.
Luckily, USA opted for Bernanke, instead of appointing you as federal reserve chairman in order to save the world economies.
it depends actually. on the spending power and development in that area. lets say if we were to compare KL and Kuala Terengganu, although KT clearly has a bigger population than one city of KL, clearly the people i
it depends actually. on the spending power and development in that area. lets say if we were to compare KL and Kuala Terengganu, although KT clearly has a bigger population than one city of KL, clearly the people i
I BET WHOEVER OBJECTS HAS NEVER EVER USED AIR ASIA BEFORE. NEVER. Just try for a day especially in rainy weather using lcct and you tell me.
Come on la everybody, do you think Airasia really likes to build his own airport with his OWN money if the Malaysia Airport supports him to extend LCCT or whatsoever KLIA North? I can sense how frustrating Fernandes was when he is seeking supports from LCCT... I can smell how many times the government shut doors to him.. until finally he get furious and decided to build his own airport. I can even smell if the Malaysia Airports said this to him,"If you really so good, then go build your own airport lor.."
You think Fernandes build his own airport for what? spend such money for what.. He must had tried other alternatives already.
Who is kennysia to Fernandes? a single stupid little blogger kid. You think he will give a damn on those stupid critics and pay kenny for replying those critics? The project was approved. You want to use or not is your matter.. Anyway, the demand is there.. If I am Fernandes, I don give a damn on those critics.
From the article which published inside micro-site on KLIA East, I noticed that it doesn't mention about the safety of having two control towers at KLIA and KLIA East(which is one of the concern points highlighted by people). Won't it be a concern if both towers aren't coordinate with each others? Imagine what will happen if under low visibility condition when one tower allow a plane to take off while another tower allow their plane to land? Is there any possibility both planes colliding with each others?
By the way, I am totally disagree about closing Subang as currently it is the most convenient airport at KL now. We don't have to travel that far to take a flight.
If i'm not mistaken, Air Traffic Control is in Subang. correct me if i'm wrong. KLIA tower only looks after ground traffic clearance. Even before it leaves the ground, it's already in Subang's hand. In East Malaysia, Air Traffic Control is in KK, Sabah. I think if you look at the map and the directions of the runways (which are running parallel to each other), there's at least 8km physical separation and ATCs always separate wide to be safe.
Also, Labu is closer to KL via the highway - only 50 KM compared to LCCTs 70+km. If you don't want to use PLUS, you could always use the Putrajaya -KL (MEX) into Putrajaya then merge at the Putrajaya 'butterfly' onto the B15 or alternatively just the B15 which is a continuation of the LDP. I drove from Nilai to MidValley via the MEX in 35 minutes at 110 - 120 km/h. Istana Budaya to Nilai (again via MEX) in less than 45 minutes. Labu is relatively underpopulated so again, minimising any noise complaints from more urban humans. Hey, what do i know? just my two cents worth.
The three airports in the New York City area are barely 30-40 km from each other. Don't see them having any problems. And Newark and JFK airports are million times busier than any airport in Malaysia.
bingo. i live 15 minutes from LaGuardia and 25 minutes from JFK. nope... no air collisons. just us airways plane landing in the hudson wtf.
will there be any direct transportation from the KLIA east to the KLIA? Like bus or train or anything cheap? I think KLIA east is a good idea.
Why don't the government and AirAsia to compromise having services in KLIA alone? They should not even started the LCCT terminal. Our airport is much larger than Changi & LAX. Both of them are busy and efficient. It is so convenient for travelers.
I don't see why we need airport one after another. whether our money or not, it still a waste!
I support this new airport. Instead of riding a one-hour bus from KL Sentral to the current LCCT, KLIA East is just a few KTM stations away from my university... Not to mention the rail links which are going to be connected when the terminal is built. Just let them build lah, not even our money pun.
Are these the kind of graduates that our local universities are producing? Duh....
CHEAP IS GOOD. LABU CHEAPER IS GOOD. I SUPPORT CHEAP. I AM CHEAP. I SUPPORT AIRASIA.
It will be a private company's airport. Let's see if the quality is better, and give LCCT little pressure. I don't want to feel like taking a cheap bus at a cheap bus stop everytime I am at LCCT.
"Great spirits have always encountered violent opposition from mediocre minds." Albert Einstein
Albert Einstein says it best and says it all. Kenny, keep up the good work. No point wasting your time with mediocre minds.
Good Day :))
This fat arsehole Kenny Sia wants to impress Tony Fernandes. This fei hai knows Tony reads his blog.
He puts so much time in his this little space until he lost his super pretty, decent and sexy girl friend.
What a loser.
Another uncivilized flaming. You must be someone who want to impress kenny.
WTF..dont slander Kenny like that lah... you acting like a real cibai...
Kenny gets paid doesnt get paid...why you worry??? you dont like go read another blog lah?? Kenny's paying you to read his blog aa? kan ni na....
yes, expanding KLIA is a good idea. But then, how long will it take? Zzz. I'd probably not be around by the time they finish it.
u're the loser jerk....
I wonder why you even bother spending your time reading this blog? And then spend time writing comments. Nothing to do meh? Go and find a gf ok. :)
That is so below the belt leonard!!Fine if you wanna f*** Kenny over shoe polishing and what not...but dun drag personal life into it!You're the SOR HAM!!!What a w*****..
please build it in Labu, nearer to my house.lol.
i think airasia should really stress that the airport will be funded privately. then everyone will shut up.
as if it will be funded "privately".
juz another ploy of bn to use rakyat's money. yeah, it's a rakyat's airport after all
Yay, now how is that being done huh? Can you please describe it more? If you can't, don't open your mouth for the sake of speaking! I support AirAsia, if not because of AirAsia, MAS will still be charging us high fare, have you seen them reducing their price before having AirAsia? AirAsia really lives up to what they promised "Now everyone can fly"
I am totally argee with G because Mas company is really wasting our money . For example. i read once on the newspaper before,showing them spend Rm20k for drawings and painting on the wall. All thie are just for the sake of the decoration. This happen in Mas Airport Sabah. KK. and btw, Mas is losing profit and goverment is giving them money to hold them together. Just like what the BN did for Proton.
No competition, No improvement.
No AirAsia, No cheap fares.
we all have to aiming because at some point we might need to get an urgent cheap fast ticket.
I guess the 1st thing in mind is Air Asia
Its just so Malaysian that when someone voice out their opinion and go against the majority it has to do with money. GOSH! So what if Kenny can swear that Air Asia did not pay him a single cent or even a free flight or any kind of return, what does it has got to do with you?!I am not saying that he has or anything, but seriously, what does it has got to do with u?!Grow up ppl, Money is not everything, Its kenny's Blog and we read it for fun and Leaisure and for some,like me read it to see what is going on in Malaysia besides reading the online papers. But seriously, think of it positively la, if He would have made something out of it wouldn't he have written something more?? Longer and much more information?! think la please!! If u dnt like what he has written and stuffs, then dnt rad la..!! Gosh, GROW UP!!
I seriously think its a god idea, with the amount of feedback I have heard I think its a wise idea to have another airport. Seriously this is human la, always not happy with the things they have! Scarcity!! Humans are never contented. U ppl want cheap fares so that we all can fly here and there for cheaper instead of other airlines, now that u have the cheaper airlines and they want to give you an "upgrade" u guys scream here and there, say this and that. Seriously at the end of the day, we as consumers are the one benefiting it. We do not have to share it with other people and with the estimated people using Air Asia rising its only the smart thing to do!
There is already the cheap airline, and now there hopefully would be a airport for them to cater for the people and the best thing is that they would fund it themselves, its all for consumers good! At the end of the day,we who use it are the winners!!
So well said Angeline! I couldn't have said it better myself!
I never even once flew with AirAsia mainly due to the complaints people keep hurling about LCCT, I think this (KLIA East airport) is a good idea and we ought to be positive and supportive about it, coz you know what? WE are the ultimate beneficiaries
There is no such thing as not leveraging a single sen from the government (or to be precise the tax payers money). At the end of the day this is going to be another "white elephant" that benefits some politicians behind the scene.
Why need so many airports so close together? Thought about air traffic err, jam? The rules and regulations involved? It's not just supporting a low budget airline, it's about practically and sensibilities. Arguments for pros and cons do make sense (on how you view it) but at the end of the day, why so cheap as chips? How does Tony make his profit? Good on ya Kenny for supporting your friend; on your blog, we are just passerby giving out 2 cents worth of unworthy advise. Heck, I dun wanna be a pilot now. All this competitive low cost budget flights cuts my wage! No wonder air stewardess so grumpy.
Young man, you sure have not drink enough milk that you BOUGHT Tony's story.
All you need to do simple, just try to answer all the Mahathir points on this, then you know why the entire mature and intelligent Rakyat is opposing this Labu.
http://chedet.co.cc/chedetblog/2009/01/labu-airport.html
Even the national investment arm, Khazanah also oppose, see here :-
http://rockybru.com.my/2009/01/khazanah-against-labu-airport.html
"In short, we do not support the Labu project. We should stick to the National Airport Masterplan as a lot of resources had been put in." - Azman Mokhtar, Khazanah chief.
Perhaps Tony knowing he failed to sell his story to the mature people, he make use of you to sell to the unknowing younger geneation and who call can pull in for the support. And what better choice , is for Kenny.
Remember the Air Asia nasi lemak stunt by you?
Sorry, this time we don't agree with you. Read more and understand why people object this. Get a broader perspective. In corporate, what you see is not what you get!!
Young man, you need to learn more on corporate stuff otherwise your reputation will be koyak if you blindly support something that is no good
Actually, after I read Mahathir's, I felt there's an invisible finger pointing somewhere else, and this invisible finger is much much bigger than the one pointing directly to Airasia.
Well, that invisible finger is Mahathir's own finger, going 180 degrees pointing back towards himself.
Fact of the matter is that KLIA built in 1998 was far too expensive, far too luxurious for the average Malaysian. Sure, all these pretty things are good for the image of the country. But for the average Malaysian it is just unnecessary expenses.
Caught you contradicting yourself a couple of times. *sigh* Ppl, watch the thread and how Kenny replies. Of course dun feed the troll yet, just trawl.
Kenny, if you feel KLIA is too expensive/extravagant, what do you call building another airport and letting the existing one rot? Again, I sincerely think the LCCT shortcomings can be fixed.
At the end of the day, this deal goes thru, it just gonna make some rich geezers stinking rich. Too bad it aint me. And guess who are the losers? Millions of RM goes to waste. Our country waste too much $$$. Of course its fun to see DrM trying to stop something that he once a part of though. Insaf kot.
How am I contradicting myself?
Why would KLIA rot if Labu is built? Malaysia Airlines did not die when AirAsia was set up, right? Using my limousine and budget taxi example, both takes you from A to B but servicing different segments of society.
If this deal goes through, it is going to make someone rich and I say that someone deserves to be rich. As long as they're not exploiting people, smart people deserves to be rich. Would you rather smart people be rich or stupid people be rich?
But let's look at it from another perspective.
Let's say this deal do not go through. Can you imagine the scenario?
AirAsia stays in LCCT. AirAsia stops expanding. MAB continues to collect rental fee from MAS, AirAsia and all other airlines. MAB still has monopoly over all three airports in Kuala Lumpur and continues to rape taxpayer's money by continuing to provide subpar services and extorting charges. It is still gonna make some geezer stinking rich and it is still not gonna be you.
Again I ask ya, would you rather smart people be rich or stupid people be rich?
dude. sometimes it's better to start from scratch than try to fix problems that were there from day 1. if the foundations were not laid properly to begin with (metaphorically speaking), you can do as many renovations as you want and it still will be problematic.
"No such big head don't wear such a big hat" - cantonese idiom.
Measure yourself before you do/spend something!!!
It's always the glamorous thing that government want's, KLCC, NorthPole, Everest, KLIA, Bakun, Space...... did all these bring any changes to middle class population? Did it bring more jobs to them? More salary maybe? HECK-THEY-DIDN'T!!!
All these only elevates the rich to get richer! (both directly or "indirectly"...) I don't see many real richie with good philanthropy records that BENEFITS to the poor!
Support "Finding Angels" and "Edisi Siasat" @ ntv7!!!
Then, is there anyone try to dig the corporate story of MAS? How about the MAS Alliance with BA and Quantas?
http://www.mysinchew.com/node/18870
KLCC Airport is a failure (If all still remembers the story back then). Expanding it for LCCT will only cost more than running a new one.
Obviously Khazanah is against the Labu Airport project.
Khazanah owns share in Malaysia Airports as well, so why would they wanna compete with themselves?
I never said I don't support AirAsia moving back to KLIA. Obviously there is a reason why they moved out from there in the first place, and that reason is that KLIA is too expensive. If AirAsia can move back to KLIA and still keep fare prices low, I will be the first person to support that.
According to MAB's website;
"It needs to be emphasised that the landing and parking charges in Malaysia have not been increased for the last 27 years. Therefore, the issue of high aeronautical charges does not arise."
I think the fare will remain more or less the same. But again, I think what Tony want is for the airport tax to be "Zero". Cause, if he runs it, the consumers will finance the airport tax - by having extra other hidden charges, like going to toilet RM1; tissue - RM1.20, etc.. You got the idea?
I think it is plain stupid to have 2 airports when the existing 1 has the capacities to expand.
Many of the figures given by AirAsia are 'doubtful' to me. Don't forget, Tony has the big ego problem as well.
I still have great respect for Tony for what he had done for the country. Even with all this controversies, I still believe that we are having an aviation industry that we all Malaysians should be proud of.
I think you are missing the most crucial points here.
An important factor here is not building the airport. It’s the management of it. Customs, Immigration and Quarantine is not something that can be done privately. It is something that the government MUST do. They are already paying for one group of people including polices, customs officers and security officers at KLIA and LCCT, why pay more because a private company wants to build his own airport?
Secondly, the management of the control tower has strict aviation standards to adhere do. Again, it’s not something that any private company just do. Anyone can own an airline but an airport is a totally different ball game.
Obviously, I support your cause for cheaper air tickets, I fly Air Asia and Tiger Airline all the time. However, business decisions must not be separated from responsibilities and accountability. Tony should have known even before he started Air Asia that he will never be able to run away from the wrath of MAHB as it is the exclusive aviation controlling body and that will never change.
The building of the airport may not cost the tax payers any cent however, the maintaining of it could be different story altogether.
And lastly, you must have been to KLIA before. Don't you realise how under utilised the airport is? Even the Stansted can clock 25 million passengers a year.
I just want to highlight 1 point.
So what if Kenny Sia is paid by Tony Fernandez or not. How about, giving his viewpoint a fair chance, and if you find flaws in his arguments, stating your opposition clearly, rather than blaring on and on that he MUST have been paid by Tony Fernandez without providing any rational evidence.
And let's sweep some bullshit off the streets:
1. AirAsia's airport is a waste of money.
THAT, is AirAsia's money. It won't cost YOU any single money. Now if I force all of you to give me your money, and then I go buy a Proton when you like to drive a Merz, of course you will be dulan.
NOW, if I take MY MONEY, and buy a Merz, and let you drive, you don't want ah?
this is the most serious post i ever read in kennysia.com
no joke at all..
TO COME: another fiery debate in kenny's comment page
Allow me to further update my comment to reflect the few of the 2 posters above me.
"The building of the airport may not cost taxpayers any money but the maintenance will."
Ok brother:
Would you rather pay for the BUILDING AND THE MAINTENANCE,
OR
Would you rather let SOMEBODY ELSE pay for the building and you ONLY PAY MAINTENANCE.
OK,
It's like saying,
Whether you want to buy the Merz AND the driver,
Or
I buy the Merz for you and you only buy the driver, ok?
Say
Merz = $1000000, Driver = $ 5000
Total Cost: 10005000
Merz paid by me, you pay 0
Driver = $ 20000 (say your own driver damn ex)
Total 20000
COMPARE.
You don't understand where i am coming from. MAHB is already paying for the maintenance. The costs of LCCT and KLIA are already there and no one is making use of it.
If you build another airport you paying another set of maintenance fee.
Taking your analogy as an example:
I already have a Merc and a Driver and half the time the driver sleeps in the car or drives to the nearest mamak for teh tarik.
Then you give me a Merc and expect me to hire another Driver.
Would i want your Merc? - No. What for?
I just cant help but to interupted here. You say MAHB pays for maintenance of the buildings???
Excuse me but correction, who pays airport taxes? And since MAHB is a owned by the government, where does the govt get the money?
And also stressing on the point of how customes, immigration and quarantine workers is paid by government. I want to stress that the government DOES NOT have to do it. As a private airport, it is run as a seperate entity. All finances and administration would be handled outside of MAHB. As for the customes, immigration and quarantine personnels, Labu Airport administration would be the ones paying for their services. The MOST government has to do, is supply the man power. Even that, many jobhunters will take it up willingly.
It is clear that many cant differentiate a public from a private sector. All your speculations and comes to no conclusions because you don do any research (typical malaysians).
I guess that clears the air too on who pays maintenance for the proposed new airport. We are! We use, we pay. Simply theory of logic and common sense.
why are people so bothered bout whether Kenny's being paid for this write up or not?...
He's just stating the facts and YES! KLIA East @ Labu is DEFINITELY the way to go. Anyone ever wonder how much hassle and cock-ups had happened in LCCT due to the inefficiency of the people operating the place a.k.a Malaysia Airports?
Think `bout it. If AirAsia can turn an ailing airline into a success, imagine them oeprating their own airport terminal.
Air Asia Boleh!
Kenny, you're writing this with blinkers on.
Just a couple of points:
1. Changi, Hong Kong, Thailand... i can name many more airports where full service carriers and budget airlines share the same airports. AirAsia flies into many of them as well.
2. I know they say it is funded fully by private funds. But, in the long run it will be tax payers money who will be maintaining the roads, trains systems, paying immigration officers, etc.
3. They say it is near. But near will never be near enough if you are in transition from one airport to another. Especially with AirAsia always late.
The best answer is for MAHB and AirAsia to drop the HUGE egos to find an amicable way of living under the same roof.
KLIA is EXTREMELY underutilized. Building another airport when KLIA is empty is already an act of wasting public funds by itself. I'm not pointing fingers, but both parties need to come together for the good of the people.
I agreed with this one.. The main problem here should be MAHB and AirAsia can't come to an peace co-operation. If you ask me who is not co-operating and who is inefficient.. the answer is clear.. Like I said in the previous comment... If full support given to AirAsia for KLIA, why you think AirAsia wants to waste such big money for building another airport, where there's free one available...
Still I smell these words thrown to AirAsia by MAHB, "You so strong, so good, build your own airport lor"
Agreed...why not fully utilise KLIA first?
you gotta be kidding me. when was the last time you flew air asia? as of late, i have encountered more delays on MAS than air asia.
the "air asia is always late" argument is TOTALLY old. =.= get with the times!
Ben,
Correction. Budget Terminal in Chagi doesn't share the same building as T1, T2 and T3 in Changi. They are separate building using the same runway like LLCT and KLIA.
fully support KLIA East and Tony !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Oh, Please build the new airport. Not everybody has that much cash to take MAS Airlines at KLIA just to avoid the horrible crap at LCCT.
It reduces the transportation fees from my place to the airport by many, many times if I can take a KTM to get there.
where my part?
you have my vote tony and kennysia
we should get a petition for this man !
i don't have opportunity to take plane... no comment.
The malaysia style -without planning talk about cheaper fares and lower cost to consumers.
In the years down the road the usual salah hintung losses and ther ask the kerajaan to buy back. The best example : Rapid Kl , Proton
This hush hush decision will benefit the few connected person. Use back the KLIA or transfer the whole C departure halls exclusively to Air asia if they think they can manage an Airport. Talk is cheap.
nobody will feel hurt in this 'blog war'.all of us are just doing free publicity for Air Asia n KLIA east.lol.
I go for new airport. Say YES to KLIA East.
You get my vote kenny!! There is so many project in Malaysia which cost millionssss of our money wasted into the deep sea and this one are free from Airasia, what is wrong for Tony and his Airasia to provide better service and option for its customer???? Air flight is not cheap for normal consumer like me. If there is a way to reduce its fare, i strongly vote with it!!!
now i know why kenny sia cannot be a political blogger like rpk and jeff ooi.
I can only say that, people don't think before they say. They are just too selfish.
Whatever the hidden agenda in this AirAsia, MAS and MAHB about building airports and not. It is just costing us the consumer more money by the day.
Bring it on for the new airport. But, please, let it be done with better connectivity and convenience.
LCCT is far, but they made a convenience; the AirAsia shuttle bus. Cheap. Though, it could be a lot more better.
Accessibility is the key point for any airport. Doesn't matter where it is.
I support Tony! I support AirAsia! I support Kenny! Cheers.
when the labu airport is completed, would we need to pay just to enter the building? since airasia have habits of charging stuffs.
WTF DAMN STUPID. what kind of argument is that!
If the plan makes money for the corporate involved and do customers good, i don't see a point why not building it.
Why bother questioning Kenny's integrity in writing this entry? have you been to LCCT? don't you think ALOT of improvement is needed over there?
Cmon malaysian. Do the right thing.
u said it urself. improve lcct and not build another one.
I'm with you regarding this issue Kenny. I view this issue as a consumer... LCCT doeesn't have the capacity to cater to additional crowd. Nowadays, with Air Asia and Air Asia X, we can see the growing numbers of tourist and Air Asia customers in general. No way LCCT can cater to that. We (again as consumer) need better and bigger airport! Go Air Asia! On the bright side, at least KTM can make extra money with the existance of the new airport though.
i disagree. It seems that you are fail to see the logic what is happening here. labu distance to klia is only 10km. the most safety recomended distance is 40km. malaysia airport which is klia will never match up against changi airport. and finally, airasia her self is in big debt when she is busysing buying new aeroplane, now she wanted to buid a new airport with sime darby?? i wonder how long she can last with the big pile of debt???
they have cleverly diverted the issue to airasia, which in reality the one behind this is obviously sime darby
I support airasia east
i dont know who are those idiots complaining bout it.. if u guys dont like air asia then just use mas
plain and simple
no, we're just going to stop the building of the new airport. nothing to do with mas
simply because he lacks that oomph in conspiracy theories. If everything is such clear cut I'd believe in Santa Claus.
i totally agree to the new airport KLIA East. With Air Asia building their new airport I believe that something private would be more efficient. I'm sure Air Asia wouldn't want to spend a large amount of money which would make them look bad and sound bad.
It does not matter where they build the airport...as long as there is competition both parties will improve their services...
it's also true the fact that Malaysians are bad in maintenance, collision might happen if there are 2 towers. Miscommunication will happen...
hmm...about the KLIA north, u really think that they are gonna build that? I kinda doubt it. Probably they were just saying it to protect themselves from Air Asia's comments...
Please correct me if I am wrong...xP
West Malaysia air traffic is controlled from Subang Air Traffic Control Centre. While East Malaysia air traffic is handled by Kota Kinabalu Air Traffic Control Centre. Aerodrome Control Towers (like KLIA, Kuching, Penang, etc) only handle approaches, taxi and apron. KLIA actually have two towers - one for apron traffic and the other for air traffic. Since each local tower control up to 40 NM of space, then it's possible that KLIA would also handle KLIA East local traffic with KLIA East having just an Apron Control Tower. Malaysia Air Traffic Controllers are apparently one of the better ones in the business, or so i've been told by friends in the airline industry- you can actually understand their English and they're very disciplined too.
ahahha i didn't miss that sly job. :D good job!
eh i meant "jab", not "job" haha.
Everyone is entitle to express their opinion.
MAS is stupid to compare with AirAsia...
I remember those day, they compete themselves with SIA to archieve 1st class airline... Instead of moving forward, now they turn backwards and fight with local airline...
I still not familiar with the airline stuff since I haven't fly before...
Hope we all can get a better flight service with cheaper flight rate ;p
When there is a competition, they will only improve themselve
....naive generic comment
One question. And I've had this since they built LCCT. Note that I'm ignorant in business and stuff like that, and I'm not a frequent flier.
My question is, why can't Air Asia use KLIA? Why is it MAS is able to provide somewhat value for money air tickets and still use KLIA but Air Asia can't? Is MAS protected under some kind of law or exceptions?
The Old Man said KLIA has the capacity of handling 125 million people in a year but currently it's only functioning at 25 million.
If Malaysia had planned this mega airport, worthy of it's own feeder railway system, why are we not using it at its full capacity? If there are indeed exceptions to MAS when it comes to airport charges or aircraft parking tickets (is there such thing?), why then are we allowing this to happen?
Is it possible now that we divert our focus to move Air Asia back to KLIA and still maintain their budget prices?
I apologize if my views are immature, uninsightful and ignorant. But hey, no one really explained what actually is happening in KLIA.
On another note, do not put such high hopes on KTM Komuter to provide train service to KLIA East. I used to commute weekly between Seremban and KL using KTM Komuter. To even say that it's reliable is a far-cry, let alone efficient.
I think the best analogy I could give is to imagine KLIA as a sleek black limousine driven by a chauffeur, and LCCT as a red and white budget taxi driven by a chain-smoking Ah Beng.
Both takes you from point A to point B, but targeted towards different segments of society.
One day, the limo driver found himself losing a lot of his customers to the taxi driver. His customers told him they don't need the extra bits. Limo driver has to lower his price to appear attractive again.
The next day, Ah Beng taxi driver was asked to pick up a group of 7 Arabs from the airport.
Those Arabs don't wanna pay for a limousine because all they wanna do is go from Point A to Point B and a budget taxi is good enough for that.
But he cannot do so because his taxi only seats 4 people. Only a limousine has enough space to seat 7 people!
So Ah Beng went to the limo company and asked to rent a limo for a day. To his surprise, the limo company quoted him 10 TIMES the price of a freaking taxi! The limo company boss told him that a standard limo comes with all the frills like the LCD TV, fridge and hookers in bikinis. If the taxi driver wants to rent a limo, then he has to pay for LCD TV, fridge and hookers in bikinis, even if the Arabs don't want it.
So instead of renting a limo, the Ah Beng said "screw you" and instead unveiled plans to build his own... 7-seater budget red and white limo! Without the LCD TV, without the fridge and without the hookers in bikinis. Somemore he can build it twice as fast and at half the price of a limo!
But as soon as the Ah Beng announced his plans, the limo company boss called him up and say "OI! You orang gila! I sudah ada 7-seater limo you still go and build your own for what?! Waste money!"
Meanwhile, the Arabs remained stranded at the airport.........
Err, does that answer your question?
Thats a good one Kenny! At times we do have to explain the situation in a storyline so that people would understand..
Damn good reply. I hope they can understand...kekeke
I love this analogy :D
So? with all the reason, another airport. If this doesn't work, another airport? C'mone, root caused known, iron it out! Is already laughable by foreigner on how mature is the government and people in malaysia.
Recession times will be hard and I think graduates surely can get job in all these airports. =)
Dude! You should consider a career in teaching. Haha. Excellent!
Kenny as I said above. Other countries have budget airlines and full service carriers in the SAME airport. Why must we always be the ones spending the most money????
What a waste Kenny! You said post this comment as a normal post so that others don't miss it!
I remember there was a time I flew back from ShangHai, a westerner shouted: wtf I need to buy the ticket at the counter and queue for the damned taxi! Even a taxi business need to be protected by the government! Shame!
Left me no words.
Malaysian never is a free market! Never allow free competition!
WHY DON'T WE FULLY UTILIZED THE NEW AITPORT and CLOSE THE INEFFICIENT LCCT and KLIA!
I'll help explain too why AirAsia does not want to use KLIA. KLIA is an international airport, by that title itself, its charges are quite high. Air Asia on the other hand is a budget airline or what you call, low cost carrier. Even at KLIA, it tried hard to cut cost by
- making crew multitasks (check-in counter and boarding gate)
- make ppl walk instead of paying for aerobridge
- low turn-around time instead of parking on tarmac for a long time.
KLIA charges too much for Air Asia to operate within the break-even zone. Beyond this zone, it starts to lose money.
Thanks, Eugene. Question answered. :)
I'll help explain too why AirAsia does not want to use KLIA. KLIA is an international airport, by that title itself, its charges are quite high. Air Asia on the other hand is a budget airline or what you call, low cost carrier. Even at KLIA, it tried hard to cut cost by
- making crew multitasks (check-in counter and boarding gate)
- make ppl walk instead of paying for aerobridge
- low turn-around time instead of parking on tarmac for a long time.
KLIA charges too much for Air Asia to operate within the break-even zone. Beyond this zone, it starts to lose money.
Dear Kenny,
I totally agree with your article. I think it's a noble move for airasia to proceed with their own airport.
The current LCCT sucks big time.
In a way, it's a huge slap on some people faces... Airasia was not allowed to operate from Subang and had to bear with crappy LCCT.
And now when they want to have their own airport, they are just pissed coz they cannot do anything else.
MAB is surely concerned as their LCCT will be empty.
I totally support this move. GO AIRASIA!!!!!!!!!
As a student who used to fly back kch frequently, i strongly support airasia. students can't afford to pay taxi from Lcct to KL mostly, so public transport esp KTM is d best as UPM student gets to stop at serdang, UKM students get to stop at Kajang... so wat's wrong building a new airport? r they affraid of competition?
though i'm a student but i c not much disadvantage from doing so.
If airasia able to cut flight ticket cost from there, it's a benefit for Malaysia as foreigner will choose airasia to stop by Malaysia for transit rather than using tiger airline. Airasia's better than tat for sure just tat d current airport is sucks :)
Just bacause Kenny wrote something to support AirAsia, people start attacking Kenny pula...
Come on guys, why can't you all treat the subject but not to personnel. YOu may not like Tony, but once Kenny mentioned he is supporting then you guys started attacking him. You, yourself doesn't like and you are selfish enough hope that the whole world will follow your wish. whenever ppl say something good about ppl you dont like, then you angry or even hate the writer. What's wrong with you guys. Be rational a bit ok.....dont divert the topic from the terminal to personal.
Happy Chinese New Year!
Why can't Airasia use KLIA?
Because they will be hamstrung at every turn by the governments protectionist policies in favour of MAS, as shown by the halfcocked implementation of LCCT which started off as a good idea but bollocks of implementation.
Exactly.
LCCT is beyond improvement. That place is a real embarrasment especially when foreigners use it.
Might as well 'demolish' it and get a better airport for AirAsia.
Or whatever la. Just that LCCT is really bad. Even it's maintanence.
Wonder why this issue seems more important to be debated than other issues in this country like the people's safety, poverty and the like.
Whatever it is, KennySia is just voicing out his concern
I agreed with kennysia on this!
Ask yourself. Why Sime Darby.
If not?
MAHB vs Sime - No doubt I'd go for Sime lor.
Sime Darly very bad mer now?
looks like u forgot about the "other" sime darby issue
Maybe we should ask KennySia if he could interview the person behind MAHB, AirAsia, Karzanah and Sime Darling.
(If possible, interview Dr.Mahathir to share a bit blogging issues as well)
Yes, Just like what KennySia did to those poor politicians last time. At least gava us a better view.
SIME DARLING! HAHAHAHAHA
Is Subang Airport really too small? Not too long ago it used to be Malaysia's international airport. It has the facilities of international standard which far exceeds the those of the LCCT terminal.
Furthermore, I think KLIA's management is doing a mistake here. I'm not sure if you all know this, but our flagship international airport is very much under-utilized. They should allow AirAsia planes to serve their operations there as well. Have you guys heard of Jetstar? They have planes at the international airport, and I compared the fares, there really isn't much of a difference.
you should probably realise that subang no longer has the same number of terminals as it had before everything moved to klia. and furthermore i think u aren't a resident of subang as I believe everyone 'loves' the sounds of tens of aircraft taking off and landing every hour.
me personally not support this project...at all.it may sound good if we hear TF say all those promises in all his fantasies (now the fantasy going to be reality).easy question.how many highway do we have in Malaysia that don't use even single cents of rakyat's money?most of highways in KL is privately funded.but at the end of the day,who have to pay?the private sector or we rakyat?they (private sector) are making money not charity.
I am not Anti-AirAsia, but y can't air asia, sime darby and mahb pool together their resources and built just 1 damn LCCT (that is, KLIA@North) instead of 2? Common sense dictates that this is much more economical...besides, even if they say that KLIA@East would be privately funded, they might pass the construction cost to you and charge you extra the next time...Another thing, so what if the new LCCT would be connected to KTM Komuter? The service is totally phucked up,most of the time delay,or no air cond, or totally packed until you cannot breathe...if the train is late, or canceled, how r u going to catch ur flight? I have 2 years + experience taking KTM, and i'm totally pissed off...
Seriously I have no idea why people are actually complaining that they are worried there will be more "hidden charges/cost"??? If there is you can always choose another airline. Isn't that what we are all doing at the moment? When planning to travel don't you check where which airlines is cheaper? More competition only benefits the end users. Just look at the telco war between Maxis, Celcom & DiGi! Who is getting the cheap call/sms rates in the end?
Count me in for the support. I share the same feeling every time I'm at LCCT for my flight. Being there reminds me of being at Pudu Raya. One word 'Packed'. Sometimes I wonder, those who criticized this KLIA East project, which airline are you flying with?
Just expand KLIA, problem solved. Even better, sell Subang Airport to Air Asia, no need to build train, nearer, and it will be so much cheaper to travel to the airport, plus, since no cost involved, we don't need to subsidize for AirAsia's construction cost.
this is a very sensible move. +1 to this suggestion
If only it were THAT simple! ;)
Well I have no idea about MAS nor Airasia since i have never taken those airlines before.. but why on earth would anyone want to waste so much money building individual airports which are not so fantastic (i'm not exactly sure how it's like there since i haven't been to the airport).. instead of pooling all the money to make a really good one?
have you been to LCCT in the first place? Have you seen how jam-packed it is?
Expand the LCCT. Come one.. with all the engineer around, All the issue pertaining to KLIA deficiency can be overcome.Read Dr M statement at chedet.com . He has very good reason.
Let's go to Singapore and fly from there ba. Even my friend from China looked down Malaysia. How come the LCCI air port like that one.... left me no word...drive him to KLIA?
We can never talk sense into ignorant minds (unfortunately this blog is frequented by more than a few of them). I agree with Kenny on this issue (which is pretty much a non-issue to begin with). The consumers benefit the most from the development of this airport; not Air Asia, not MAS, period. Why should a noble cause be politicised in such a way that certain parties be allowed to gain personally from this hoo-ha? This genuinely reflects the unflattering side of Malaysian culture whereby time is wasted on petty debates (e.g. should we send another astronaut into space? of course not!) and people fail to see the "big picture". We must allow businesses to grow and compete on a leveled playing field. Air Asia is a true Malaysian success story and they continue to reinvent themselves with consumer value in mind. I'm not saying they're perfect as they do suffer from hiccups occassionally but they've been rather succesful in promoting the Malaysian brand internationally. Obviously, MAB and MAS have always been protected by the government but this is the wrong way to go and a change is long overdue. If we want Malaysian businesses to be able to compete globally, then we must first eliminate, or at least reduce, the benefits of commercial protection afforded to most GLCs. The current global downturn personifies the phrase "Only the strongest survives". This is just another episode of power struggle in the Malaysian "upper" society. I've no hope for our governmment, nor the opposition.
Happy Chinese New Year to everyone! :)
Yea. Kenny, nice post. me too, I feel that this KLIA East airport is a great thing. Because it gonna be build by AirAsia and Sime Darby give us even more confidence. They are big and reputable companies. Rest assured, everything gonna be great with them. Unlike those government linked companies who most of the times depends only on the government to do well. Anyway, what's up with the fuss? Building this airport wont do us any harm and it will definitely benefit us. No point debating.
Building this new airport is a very bad move. Sheer waste of resources. And, what, 10 km from KLIA??? U must be joking man. Why not just use KLIA.
you fucking idiot read kenny's post again. and also his analogy of the situation in the comments section
HELLO. THE CURRENT LCCT IS FIFTEEN KILOMETERS AWAY FROM KLIA. 15. 10 and you're already making a big noise.
comeon people...look at the fact and focus on the fact.
if it improve the situation and help the people why not right?
In the end, if the charges increase, change to another airline... look at the years before Airasia..and compare it with now...
You think air asia's new airport would be truly "privately funded"? you gotta be kidding me...and sime darby is so not a glc...
I seriously lol'ed at Sime Darby. First is IJN, and now an airport? Someone is behind this, from rpk's blog i read there're UMNO connections around.
Go Tony Fernandez!!
yawn. it's yet another boring post contributed by kenny sia =_=
Here, have a pillow.
why bother coming here then ? get a life you scum
"Always forgive your enemies - nothing annoys them so much." :D
I believe that Kenny Sia is not paid to do this.
I see that a lot of people make sweeping statements without considering other sides of the story.
From the consumer's view, this labu airport project certainly looks good, especially in the short term - cheap flights, better service, not using taxpayers money.
But from the long-term point of view, Expanding KLIA is better. KLIA was an expensive project meant to be expanded should more flights/gates be needed.
You guys really should read Mahathir's post before commenting.
It is simply inefficient use of the country's land resources to do the Labu project. The Labu land could've been used for other stuff. KLIA can expand with the land allocated for it.
--
I believe that this is Tony's way of bringing more attention to pressurize MAHB to quicken their feet with the expansion, and pressurize them to be more efficient - to save costs. Or perhaps people might pressurize them to give AirAsia a hand in the airport handling. Goodness knows.
I flew AirAsia last month, and I must say I'm quite impressed!
Definitely kudos to a company with balls to start a big project which will generate jobs for the local industry - especially during the global financial slow down!
this is the first post that I send after i read kennysia for so long. I really think kennnysia doing the right thing supporting this event.
I really think that people that critising kennysia don't really respect other people belief system and opinion.
Come on guy, respect other people as they will respect us also.
Kennysia just voice out his opinion. Whether it's wrong or not, we don't criticise it but we respect it.
Good work kennysia. Just ignore all those loser that keep on complaining.
an interesting post. No matter how many arguments on this mater, I think AA will get to build its own airport sooner or later. Indians are very persistent.
Although I don't agree with AA plan, but that's how business works, of course it's for the benefits of people, but also more important for the shareholders. Building their own airport definitely put them in advantages in term of cost and control.
Having 3 airports in one location close to each other... hahaha... the whole world will laugh.
looks like u don't know many things. U look at the surface but u dun delve deep into the gist of the issue.
Just read lim kit siang's appraisal and get a whole picture of the situation before u start placing ur faith in air asia.
I also fly air asia and it sux. Building this new airport will only make it worse.
U have to consider. Fares won't be cheaper in the 1st few years cos they have to recoup the billions spent on the airport.
Labu is not anywhere near KL. All that talk about it being close to KL is all bullshit.
U had better delve deeper into the issue instead of coming out in support of air asia. This is called blind faith.
Everyone has rights to say what they have in mind. And most of the time, it doesn't have to relate with money. Don't be a typical Malaysian, try to accuse people when they trying to do something right. Kenny, I like your ur spirit, fight for the right and never defend the wrong. Whatever it is, you are not alone. I'm with you. I hope the your intention of writing this post is from your heart and I want to believe it. Do not let anything change you from what you are. This is a blog, people do has their right to write what they have in mind, so if other readers don't agree, you can just post your argument here, personal attack is not necessary. Happy Chinese New Year everyone.
Come on, why are you all arguing over this topic. Since it's in the plan already, go for it. It's called PROGRESS. If it won't be utilised now, at least save for the future. With this, travellers have more choices.
Imagine if AirAsia one day decided to fly from BOTH Labu and KLIA Main, there's the real competition. Which airport will offer lower airport tax? Just like Singapore Airlines flying from both Changi Airport Terminal 2 and 3 in Changi Airport. T3's taxes are higher than T2.
On a side note:
I also read that the ERL extension link to LCCT will be completed AFTER the LCCT is fully completed. See the poor planning? Transport connections should always come first.
Oh, by the way, land has been reclaimed for Changi Airport's Terminal 4 already. It's just a matter of when it's gonne be up.
Why Tony wants to build a new airport?
because Tony need a better airport.
Why not using KLIA?
because Tony don't like to be a dog, with a chain on his neck; he thinks big, dream big, and wants to make it really big in the future.
Why not expanding the current LCCT?
I'm curious about it too....why har? but i know there must be some serious reason...
LCCT,air asia = cheap = freaking overcrowded with ppl which create freaking long queue which make flights delays = carrying heavy luggage and have to walk outside and climb stairs into the plane,hows that for an old man? = freaking expensive food that we have to pay
present KLIA,MAS = expensive = not crowded = less delays = waiting hall and the plane are attached(sorry for my poor english) = free delicious(for me) food(no RM8 cup mee)
so my conclusion here is,if build a new airport and can improve(i'm talking about big improvement) for air asia, why not?
Expand LCCT, still no links by ERL or KTM Komuter. AirAsia still under control by the big guys. Have to endure BUS TOUTS. Never heard of that right? It's a competition between an RM9 AirAsia official shuttle and the other competitors who offer RM8. Not much frils (as compared to Singapore's Budget Terminal).
KLIA East @ Labu, links by ERL and KTM Komuter. AirAsia can customise the airport according to their own needs. May control express buses to KL Sentral. Provides air operation competition for Malaysia which is good in the long run.
I don't really mind supporting if it's for the greater good.
But the ktm part,the journey can end up like 90 minutes. You must also give time allowance for any delays and postpone. Ktm has a part to play to prevent any horrible thing happening, like customer complaints if they are the one who causes them to miss the flight. But compare the Ktm now to Ktm a few years back, they've improved and making effort to change their service.
If KTM wants, they can operate an express service for a direct competition too.
KL Sentral - Serdang - Kajang - Nilai - KLIA East @ Labu
And it's definitely cheaper than the absurd RM35 by KLIA Ekspres.
fuck off you all kenny and tony fernandes haters, bunch of low lives
I don't think it's personal, just that the timing of the announcement seems to be bad.
Most Malaysians have grown tired of big, mega projects that either end up as white elephants (READ: PKFZ) or a failure (READ: JB CIQ).
The big spending by mega corporations that run contrary to people's interest has gotten under the skin of many people for a long time. Also the many wrong decisions made by our government when approving such projects are also aplenty.
Hence the reason for the strong opposition.
I think Air Asia is merely a victim of circumstances. Perhaps they could have chosen a better business partner rather than Sime Darby.
The bad publicity of the proposed IJN takeover seemed to have spilled over to this KLIA East.
Just my 2 cents worth of opinion.
p/s: In the midst of this intense debate, one thing seems to have been left out- What's gonna happen to the LCCT when KLIA East is completed?
My sentiments exactly! That is why I said we're beating up the good guys. Not all government-linked companies are run by evil people out to suck blood for government cronies, but people always think of them as such.
I'm pretty sure LCCT is gonna be converted back to the cargo warehouse it is originally intended for. As for the other airlines residing there, I'm sure by then they can choose whether to land at KLIA or KLIA East. I think lah!
anyone who thinks that kenny actually wrote this to make a profit is a complete idiot. regarding an earlier comment,u guys who said that should really grow up(totally agree).the mentality you guys have is sooooooo backward. that's probably why malaysia is not developing as fast as othe SEA countries or china. i'm not with air asia or malaysian airlines but i'll definitely support whichever carrier gives me a better price my next holiday!=)
To me, the best is to get Air Asia move back into KLIA. I miss the busy atmosphere in KLIA. It's such a boring and quiet airport ever since Air Asia flew from its own LCCT. KLIA is so under-utilized... sigh..
But we do not know what the hidden agenda is behind KLIA - LCCT - KLIA EAST...
Or perhaps Subang Terminal can be sold off to Air Asia? Nearer for KL lang too!!! :)
i would like to know where the safety recommended facts came from. Singapore has 6 runways if not airports and i don think each runway has a 40km radius clearance from the next one.
In response to Ben's comment (Below)
***
Kenny, you're writing this with blinkers on.
Just a couple of points:
1. Changi, Hong Kong, Thailand... i can name many more airports where full service carriers and budget airlines share the same airports. AirAsia flies into many of them as well.
2. I know they say it is funded fully by private funds. But, in the long run it will be tax payers money who will be maintaining the roads, trains systems, paying immigration officers, etc.
3. They say it is near. But near will never be near enough if you are in transition from one airport to another. Especially with AirAsia always late.
The best answer is for MAHB and AirAsia to drop the HUGE egos to find an amicable way of living under the same roof.
KLIA is EXTREMELY underutilized. Building another airport when KLIA is empty is already an act of wasting public funds by itself. I'm not pointing fingers, but both parties need to come together for the good of the people.
***
My response
1. Silk, Tiger and other budget airlines fly into the same airport because land is not on their side. On the contrary, i can name you a few more airlines that have their own airports. Easyjet does not use the same airport as BA, nor does Ryanair, they avoid all major airports. And mind you these are 2 big gigantic airlines that impact aviation. Not some airline like you had in mind. Don undermind AirAsia.
2. Yes its true it will be our money who pays for everything. But whats the difference with the initial maintenance? Its our money too by the way. Are you trying to say LCCT/KLIA was free? Point redundant.
3. This point is bias. If your "late" or fear you maybe be missing your connecting flight, then i hardly think its the location's fault if you scheduled your transition period too close together. Again, this point is rather selfish. In addition, i believe the network of MAS and AirAsia is efficient enough that connecting flights are rarely a must already. Air Asia operates on a point-to-point basis, which means fly direct, as opposed to MAS's hub and spoke. Even they overcame that problem by introducing MASwings and Firefly.
And lastly, KLIA is not underutilised. In airport operations, plans need to cover at least a 20 year scale. Because airports take a a minimum of 10 years to be fully utilised and operational. Planning itself takes alot of time and huge scale construction comes into the mix. By the time you want to expand when its already full, its too late. KLIA is preparing for the future.
yes point 2 is redundant.
our money is also being use for the maintanence for lcct right.
what maintainence huh...
I believe the "late" here means the AirAsia flight either going or returning is somehow always delayed with the notification received via SMS, isn't that so? So much so that AirAsia acknowledges this problem and introduced the RM200 voucher for delays exceeding 3 hrs, but usually the delays are about 1 hr or so... smart huh?
It's not exactly redundant. If the Labu airport materialises...wouldn't we be paying for both the LCCT/KLIA and the Labu airport's maintenance? Which means more tax money consumed.
So really now... How many free air miles did he give you for this?
Tony so far has been good trying to rationalise and justify for the Labu airport.
But the people are opposing simply because Tony does not come clean on more important issue especially the financing part.
Therefore, Tony has not been convincing hence, even if Kenny can help him, that will be limited unless Tony comes clean on the following issues:-
1. How much of Tony own money or shares is he willing to be use to fund this project. (If not all people are speculating our public funds eg EPF directly or thru some financial instrument issue to publis funds , may be use. This is what worries the public.
Put your own money if you really sincere, simple. Go ask him, can or not? If he is wishy washy, then must exercise caution.
It is plain easy just to verbally declare now that no public funds will bre required, but knowing the habits of Cakap Tak Serupa Bikin, we must be careful with all this corporate language.
2. Who are the financiers and what are the indicative term and condition of financial facilities.
3. How much is Air Asia still owing MAB?
4. Who are the contractors for the labu project and list of jobs identified and each portion of value of estimated contract.?
5. What is the rate of return of the labu project to investors and if Tony is so confident, please ask him to give 10 years guaranteed return, otherwise his sweetaliking carries no weight at all.
At this advance stage it is not convincing at all that Tony doesnt give any indication of return. He just demand that he want to built the airport? Can ah? Mana boleh macam itu?
If not, do you know the consequence if the labu project fails?) By that time, Tony will give a simple excuse and exit and say a simple bye bye. And we will end up another bail out project.
Building something and managing it is different.
But the cherry is always at the building stage. Make all the profit upfront, eg thru contract sum at the initial stage and let the Rakyat to carry the shits later part. This has been our norms most time.
Kenny, tell your client be transparent lah, then we can support, otherwise susah.
gryp,
both Air Asia and Sime Darby are public listed company. if you need those transparency info, then you should consider to buy their shares and wait for their annual report.
it wld be excellent if u can perhaps buy enough of it to hv voting rights as u hate this proposal so much u can slam it to tony's or ahmad zubir's face.
now back to reality, at least this is a private project JV by two listed companies who has their obigations to show their annual reports to their respective share holders, and this project is a guaranteed success due to both companies are profit oriented, we could just hope that Air Asia doesnt forget their roots that they are here for us to ease our burden in flying and a promised to us as a budget airlines.
failing to do so, we can ask the next PM to appoint a new airlines to fly airasia routes and make them a bankrupt. dont play play.. anything can happen in Malaysia.
who's the next pm? If it's anwar then there's hope, but if it's najis....
Wow, this post really serious ooo. haha~ support~
I'm still quite skeptical about this project because nowadays whenever someone tries to be a hero or impose themselves as a generous as Tony is doing right now, there's always something hidden up their sleeves.
Analogically speaking he has to be bare naked so I can see there's no tricks up his sleeves. I can spend 10 hours just listening to his explanation no prob. And I might need a cavity check team so I know he couldnt hide his tricks in him, figuratively speaking.
i support air asia! :)
Very well said, kenny. I wonder how many people actaully bother to read Tony's research and explaination before saying it's all wrong and stuff. The FAQ there already answered all my doubts after I read them. And I think a lot of people missed the line that "NO PUBLIC FUNDS WILL BE USED"
Honestly, the current LCCT sux! Look at how hard is it to get there. Have you people notice that the signboard to LCCT are relatively quite small and not that visible (not to mentioned limited)? And if I'm correct, the highway to LCCT could've been shorter. Even though it's part of KLIA, people still have to go one whole round to get there. I really think that Malaysia Airports or some asshole up there just wanna make life hard for AirAsia and consumers who used them just to keep MAS alive.
As for Dr.M's criticism on this project: well, as much as I respect him for what he's done to make the country today, I do not like his doing/not doing that brought the country to where it is today, which is probably 30 years behind where we could have been if people's money and things are really managed properly.
Just accept this old man is someone who MUST leave a legacy. And when any of his legacy (regardless how useless and wasteful they are) somehow face a chance of becoming a white elephant project and would affect his name, he will be very pissed and will strike back at full force. A good example of this would be what the old man did to Pak Lah when he can't control him... If he's serious about caring for people, Malaysia would have been really far ahead of where it is today.
How sure are you that what's posted on that website is 110% true?
How sure are you that tony won't use public funds?
Don't trust things on the net 100%.
Doesn't that mean more deforestation (land clearing), logging, run-offs and also affecting the life of both endangered species and domestic species? :(
This can all be done, but i hope there's some Environmental Effort Planning put some involvement in this project...
eg, send the proposal for EIA (Environmental Impact Assessment) its basically an interdisciplinary process where both quantifiable costs and benefits but also unquantifiable externalities are considered and presented to the public in a formal statement. This way both we all win :)
Malaysia Boleh!!
All of them need to learn to play nicely. Everyone win win situation. When they don't play nicely, ppl play somewhere else lor, fair or not? Just because ppl play somewhere else, you don't go jealous lor. All big boys already mah.
Also whether the funding is private, from ppl money's or not; in the end, if they do use your money, what do you get in return? Could it be INTEREST? Otherwise EPF wouldn't have dividend to pay you yearly. Later complain again why dividend low...sigh.
Kenny, my warmest regards to you and your article create a stream of interesting debate, which i find it's good and healthy. get paid or not, it's another stories all together, i still support your constructive feedback and personal opinion as you use LCCT so regularly.malaysian in general must learn to accept good feedback and stop pointing finger so soon without knowing the truth.Accept feedback and if one's think it not to your liking, give your own point of view. Why kill the idea and personal opinion?
I would like to see more open debate from various party before the project is kicking in. that will surely sound more mature and allign to "malaysia boleh" slogan which every tom, dick, harry and sometimes politician shouted.
just my 2 cents.
1. Yes, LCCT super hyper incredible pack, must change this situation.
can hardly breath there...
2. Since KLIA very big and LCCT very small...how about this...who got more flights and passengers use the bigger one...
Either move in to KLIA to fill the emptiness or move out to new Airport with sky bridge. KLIA looks like a "GHOST TOWN" compare to airport in Spore, HK, Ozzy and etc.... you name it.
Just make sure Tax Payer $$ are well spent and not flush into the "Pockets"
KLIA east is waste of money lah especially in these bad times...too near LCCT.What is the purpose of opening it so close to LCCT?
Just upgrade LCCT to a bigger and better terminal.
I know LCCT sucks but what u pay is what u get.You want cheap,you sacrifice on others.
If not just go fly MAS lah,then you get to enjoy the super clean n nice KLIA.
i think it's actually a conspiracy by certain people who scared when they are compared with this big project without costing rakyat even a penny & yet stands out to b the far more better one.
it sure will have certain degree of effects on malaysia & rakyat's thinking as well.
what hv bakun dam benifited us rather than wasting money?
Rakyat, plz open ur mind!
I totally agree with you about everything in this post kenny.
Another point im most disturbed. Many are having trouble with the issue that Tony is paying Kenny. See it even rhymes! Let me iriterate again by asking. Your point is??
You see, it doesnt matter if Tony pays Kenny or not. I'm sure by now you're saying it does and that im being one-sided. It doesnt matter because the point Kenny made is still legitimate. what i'm saying is, you ppl who are suspicious are missing the point of it all, the point that he made is still a point nonetheless.
Put in 2 scenarios.
If Tony did pay Kenny but Kenny denied, reality is, the point he made in his post is still legitimate and logic.
If Tony did not pay Kenny, the point is still legitimate and logic.
Whatever your point you make between the relationship of those 2, do not miss the fact that the case for the airport made from a person's perspective is still.......legitimate and logic.
Another simpler analogy. The earth is round. That's a fact. No matter how much you believe the earth is flat, reality is the earth will always be round. You can make the entire world believe it's flat but it doesnt change much of reality.
Same thing here. Kenny can blackmail Tony just to write this and it doesnt change the reality of the post he wrote. So wake up ppl, see a picture from a further distance, don stare at one corner and say it doesnt look like anything.
why Airasia doesn't want to use the main terminal building in KLIA now? because it says it's expensive.
so how much is expensive and what is expensive? Only the extra charges for the aerobridges, that means 50 sen extra for each passenger.
One mistake your trying to make...is that you think you know better than those who actually work the finances and operations of these things everyday. Ok let me expand it for you then since you say 50 cent is the charge. I hardly doub tthats the charge anyway but nvm.
50 cents per passenger.
150 passenger per flight = RM75
Current records say Air Asia handles about 30 million passengers per annum.
RM 75 x 30 million = RM 2,250,000,000
Thats only roughly. It could be more or less than that, but the point is, its a frill Air Asia can afford to lose. Imagine how much they can save. so 50 cent my friend, is still $$$. Clearly, your not very good at saving are you.
its 30 million passengers,
not 30 million flight..
and its RM0.50 x 30million..
which is 15million..
well its still alot though...
=)
oh yea...i realised my mistake! so sorry....must have been calculating it while watching tv...thanks for the highlight...
the next time when u take a flight from Labu, and u need to pay more for the services, transport, connecting to KLIA, foods etc. (which is more than 50 sen), u will start to wonder who is not making the money sense here.
can u stop looking from a commercial point of view and start think like a passenger instead of an AirAsian?
first of all, the National Airport Masterplan (http://rockybru.com.my/2009/01/khazanah-against-labu-airport.html) is useless if Air Asia aint using it. Most people are using Air Asia. if most people aint going KLIA for that, then wat's the use of luxury KLIA or the "masterplan".
So okay, KLIA is overcharged or wateva, MAB should seriously lower the cost for Air Asia to operate there. People who are against the Labu airport are trying to protect their own investment cuz Air Asia is like a huge competitor. If MAB want the KLIA to be utilized for the sake of the "Rakyat", make it utilizable for the operating airline company.
"AirAsia's aggressive chief executive Tony Fernandes predicts that the airline will handle 60 million passengers in four years' time and have a fleet of 184 aircraft." (http://remgold.blogspot.com/2009/01/airport-labulabis-turf-war-amok-vs-tony.html)
"By 2014 it will handle 26 million passengers. Present terminal at KLIA is handling about 25 million passengers." "By 2014 Air Asia will have 77 aircrafts".(http://chedet.co.cc/chedetblog/2009/01/labu-airport.html)
See... comparison...Dr. M underestimated the number neh..
I myself still have doubts about how the management will be done in a private airport and izzit really safe to have 2 airports so close to each other?
I don't care about Sime Darby. Sime Darby is probably making a joint investment with Air Asia and maybe they get a cake of some of the profit?
I'm just a stupid student and I'm not even a business student. I don't fly on planes and probably my opinion don't matter. But I still wanna say smth.
I agree on builing the new KLIA EAST and I hope Air Asia improve along with the new airport.
Im a stewardess and recently chat up with an American couple honeymooning in Bangkok.. We were talking about different airline companies and the name Air Asia came up. And they shook their heads telling me the bad airport conditon and how AA dint even give a ticket for them and they have to fight for a place in the plane.
I have to explain to them its the budget airline's tactic in making the extra income. :-/
how sad for me to hear negative comments from someone who flew all the way across the globe and took Air Asia?
Not having an allocated seat number is just AirAsia's lousiness, nothing to do with which airport. If Tiger Air from Singapore which is also a budget airlines could allow customers to choose their seats during booking, why can't AirAsia? Don't say stupid things like trying to keep costs low, because we know that is bollocks...it should be basic feature in any transportation booking system.
actually airasia is coming up with seat numbering.
how sure are you that the government are not paying a single cent?
if so, why are do the people disagree about this project?
well i'm really confused after reading mahathir's post... @.@
lets imagine its the future and klia east is completed
airasia has managed to maintain low fares for its passengers by not moving to the expensive klia and privately funding the new terminal..
and competition is good for us consumers rite as it keeps ticket prices low..
then as lcct collapses cos not enough flights and all the other budget airlines have to move to air asia-owned klia east...
hrmmm...suddenly other low cost airlines depend on air asia's goodwill
air asia controls its competitors..
no more competition..air asia wins..
ticket prices start to inflate..
hello again, mas..
Actually no, all the budget airlines DON'T have to move to AirAsia-operated KLIA East. They can move there, but they don't have to. They can move to Malaysia Airports-operated KLIA Main Terminal, or Malaysia Airports-operated Subang Airport... whichever suits their objectives better.
And that my friend, is the beauty of competition. ;)
Kenny,
You said it correctly. You're just a 26-year old who doesn't know anything about politics and the industry. So stick to what you've always written. This is something beyond your comprehension.
I'm fine with Air Asia and its cheap fares. I am not fine, however, when they cheat the government and the Rakyat by going thru backdoor tactics on numerous occasions, by meeting Zaki Zahid at special luncheons at Shangri La Putrajaya and the likes.
If they really want to have a level playing field, start from the beginning, and not claim that they have been unfairly treated. There's more to this than you'll ever know.
So stick to your original blog concept. Don't write about things you don't understand!
Kenny, this is a good and positive step you've taken to highlight key issues to the public. Do not be affected by personal comments or derogatory terms thrown at you. These people are probably exercising their limited logic.
Anti-labu, it doesn't matter what kind of tactics they use isn't it? Because thats not the central issue. The central problems are: 1)expensive operating costs in KLIA and the 2)LCCT not being able to contain the booming Airasia business. So when a business faces such problems, it comes up with solutions to solve it and tries to implement it the way it can. If the solution is bad, then the business will suffer. Its simple from Airasia's point of view because it is THEIR BUSINESS. They do whatever they want with it. fail, fail la.
It starts to become OUR problem when it incurs costs on our end, like aforementioned reasons by other readers eg. maintenance of roads and highways, rise of insurance premiums, tolls, etc. Once it starts to affect us with extra costs then i think the problem starts. alot of the problems have been tackled above so i shall not repeat. But if the problems are taken care of, and no extra costs are placed on consumers, whats the big problem? Further, if it bugs u, don't buy airasia! its a business proposition for crying out loud.
Well clara, this the thing.
Air Asia's business model was built on:
1. Offering the lowest fares (a noble idea)
2. Getting the government to build them a temporary LCCT for free (another noble idea).
3. Cheating MAB of the airport tax due to them, which was already collected earlier from the passenger (very noble indeed).
4. Cheating MAS on the Sabah / Sarawak rural air services despite getting the subsidies to run them, and then returning crap aircraft back to MAS (very noble).
5. Using PMO fourth floor people like Zaki to get PM to do his bidding! (what else can I say?)
Now to the common people, Tony may look like a hero. To the people in the aviation industry, he is the biggest con-job there is.
Look, I like this blog, but as I have said earlier, it should stick to what it normally does.
Don't write about things you don't understand. Or can't comprehend.
And take it from me, I'm an old hand in this business.
And you clara, you must work with Air Asia eh? (of course not, but then again, who knows?)
Wah... Old uncle/aunty doesn't means they know everything ok... world is always revolving!
With those stubborn thoughts won't bring Malaysia anywhere. Yes, Tony might not as noble as we all thought, but what he did to AirAsia is a lesson to be learned by all entrepreneurs.
That is BUSINESS!!! DUDE!!! Business is full of tactics... You'd put the matter too negative and misleading. I guess you are absolutely not an employee of AirAsia, but you are SO NOT an entrepreneur as well.
Thx for discouraging everyone.
wah... i can't believe i'm being titled as "cowardly anonymous chicken".... I just forgot to put my name!!!!
I don't think Air Asia's mode of approach in dealing with the issue is wrong. Yes, i admit its unconventional but thats how the society go...new, fresh and creative direction and still ethical and clean. So wad if Tony is being different? Doesnt mean he's stupid. And kenny is also among the not-so-conventional. The way he writes is simple so that it is easier to be understood..doesnt mean he's stupid. In fact its brilliant! and btw...DONT YOU EVER USE AIR ASIA AND LCCT?
Seriously , why do you kids even bother to flame ? Go make some friends ...
hi kenny!
ok, i'm still a student, and might nt b a citizen that follow what the gov is doin all e time, but one thing i realise and accept is that THE GOV URBAN PLANING SUX! i mean seriously. look at NPE located at old klang road in PJS1, it was nt suppose to cut into old klang road, yet a tol is build there. it was suppose to link to puchong, yet low cost flats are builded on the road. as far as i can remember frm my primary skul kajian tempatan, we do hav a dam in sarawak rite? is e project resumed or e rakyat money is inside someone's pocket d? no offence to ppl tt stay in penang, but e last time i visit there, the trafic is horrible. back in kl city, all the new highways are builded without proper planing, and it does not solve the jam problem!
urban planning is reali essential to a contry's development, yet it is shity here in m'sia. i've been living in singapore for the past 6 years, and to b honest their urban planning is well crafted wit foresight. compare to KL? nah, i don't think anything will b achieve by 2020.
building a new airport? why not? consumers have more options, two airport attracts different consumer groups, consumer welfare is being taken care off, i dun see anything wrong about the plan! we as consumer has more chioce instead of taking more expensive means of traveling. it injects competition into the market and MA will work their ass off to remain competetive. only when there is competition, our industries will grow, and nt reliant on the gov to progress. KLIA, just accept that life for u guys wont b tt easy when the new airport is complete, and be more innovative and creative in doing business!
cut all the crap on wasting rakyat money, since when our money is well spend? name me one place where our money is well spend and i can name 3 where our money is wasted. stop winin arnd and work towards WAWASAN2020 if u love your country, or u claim to love your country.
HAPPY CHINESE NEW YEAR!
GONG XI FA CAI! :)
I agree with the construction of KLIA East @ Labu. so far, only Perlis & Negeri Sembilan don't have their own airports. moreover, no space to expand LCCT anymore. What for using Subang Airport, MAS's Fireflyz services there. i ever been to LCCT 3 years ago, the services are kinda as slow as a snail. huh, have to wait 1 hour for the baggage services, not worth itLAH! AirAsia has good Airbus A320, yet slow services, still no good & no match for S'pore's JetStar, Silk & Tiger. Whoa, spoiling Amber Chia's photo by stretching it into runway size? that's so funny. thank you also for displaying old AirAsia plane. about short talk, PAS Youth done nothing but stupid. I'm a Muslim, so it's not wrong to attend concert but plz let it under control. What if PAS Youth wants to ban Fahrenheit's concert? All CPOP fans will be angry. Say YES to KPOP, JPOP, CPOP concerts in M'sia.
I really think that AirAsia is doing a great job in outsourcing on ways to develop further in expanding their business. And I totally agree that AirAsia is doing a great favour towards customers in fulfilling its conveniences. However, I know that Subang Airport is small, but is there any way that maybe AirAsia could propose to Malaysia Airport in extending or building extra terminal on Subang Airport in order to accommodate AirAsia's business? Well I wish AirAsia the very best!
hell i say YES TO KLIA EAST. Gawd.
I don't think Kenny is paid by Airasia.
Any mature person would see through the mess and said Labu is a good idea.
There's nothing wrong with it.
As far as I know, there's nothing wrong with the "Scenic Bridge" to Singapore.
Both of them are just victim of circumstances.
They just announce it at a bad time and with little details. So, MAS and Malaysia Airports took offense and tried to kill the plan by using Malaysians.
there are so many things wrong about the scenic bridge.
have you seen the artist impression of the bridge? Its "S" shape....
tell me.... does it make ANY sense to spend twice as much resource to build a bridge almost twice as long so I can burn twice as much petrol and spend twice as much time getting to the other side!!???
totally got no logic and no benefits for commuters...
scenic bridge.... got nice scenery meh?
i am fine with you guys wasting your tax money but pls dun waste mine...
I thought it's high time somebody got to reasoning out matters pertaining to the problems among our fellow flight producers, and here you are doing the public a huge favour by compiling facts and knowledge without the rest of us lame men having to research anything (of course, it's better if we do research ourselves rather than to believe yours outrightly, which is what these critics you have here should do before making any kind of accusations)
Knowing full well of the consequences this is one of the rare times I have to applaud you for your efforts. I would have done this myself but I know the effort needed and controversy gained would not be worth it, so kudos for being the dark hero in our midst. Hopefully we won't see MAS nor Fireflyz being as immature as those who ridicule your efforts (efforts, mind you, it would seem that they're targeting you instead of the real issue presented here lol) and treat this as another challenge, for hope of more improvement in the flight industry in Malaysia!
Air Asia has shown great business sense in the past, and have a resourceful business leader in Tony Fernandes who have really made it possible for Everyone to Fly. The question is, do Malaysians trust this man and the new business plan enough? I, for one, am all for it. Build the airport. It is a vision of Malaysia's future that CAN work. Enuf' said.
To all the people saying:
"Why not Airasia just cooperate with MAS and use LCCT"
"Why not everybody(Airasia, MAS, Simedarby, Malaysian Gov) just hug and kiss and make babies together in the LCCT/KLIA"
I would add:
"Why not the Israelis and Palestinians shake hands and stop fighting"
"Why not our local universities accept students purely based on meritocracy"
"Why as a student in my own country I don't deserve any scholarship but somehow Singapore finds me good enough to offer me a scholarship to study in their best university"
"Why is Singapore so far ahead of us economically when it has no natural resources and we have abundance"
Why?
Let's say this together:
Airasia cannot use KLIA because it would be held hostage to the governments protectionist policies in favour of MAS.In concrete examples: It will be charged too much for use of subpar facilities of the LCCT. It's needs will not be met in a timely fashion.
If you are a hamster, would you stay in the same house as a wolf?
Best. Comment. Ever!
oh. my. f**king. god. now that is an educated comment. you're a smart guy, and what you say is very true about malaysia practicing double standards and Isreal/Palestine 'playing' with each other. The world comes in triplets, not pairs. Eg: there are people who object AA's new airport, there are also people who support AA's new airport, last but not least, the 3rd party would be the people who could not care at all about AA's new project.
i think this post is way too bias. Seriously do u know why there are so many critics who go against the new airport plan?
From the way u support it seems that u dont know the true story behind all this. It sounds extremely fishy when great plan like this (superficially) get so much backlash from the citizen and politician alike. Please do more research about this
I would sincerely love to read the materials you've dug up.
Just by reading about this whole issue,
my observation on this matter is not all about the waste of funds and resources to build this airport at Labu. Think of it, Air Asia is a private corporation and MAS is owned by government. Being in the same industry, both companies have the same interest which is generating the most profit possible. Correct me if I'm wrong, I believe MAS is owned by the government and they have been very comfortable in their operations until Air Asia came along. To compete with a government owned business, Air Asia has to be very competitive to earn that bit of market share too. Hence, Tony Fernandes has very good reasons to build his own airport for his airline. Not only he will have total control of management and operations, the airport will be able to meet the consumer demands in a more efficient way. The current LCCT obviously is not providing a competitive edge for Air Asia to grow as a lot of the consumers complained of the lack of space and poor service. In businesses nowadays, not only price is a factor for purchasing a service, customer relationship and experience management is vital to keep the business profitable. In this case,who do we point fingers at when it comes to customer disatisfaction with LCCT? Air Asia is obviously receiving all the bad publicity because of LCCT and realising that this may be major problem in the future, why not build their own airport and manage it themselves instead of letting MAHB controlling it. With this way, Air Asia will be able to personalize and cater their services to suit their consumer demands in a more effective manner.
And the best part is, Tony Fernandes is not using tax payer's money for this construction! So why are still people against it? Looking at the bigger picture, this airport will create more development in Labu. In an economic sense, this airport will not only provide jobs for people around that area, it will lead to more development in the future.
Not many of us, the usual bargain-hunting consumers, are frequent flyers like you, kenny sia. I myself only rode Airasia once and i do agree with you that, LCCT sucks big time. in fact air asia sucks as well and many will say the same that if MAS fare is not much more expensive, they'll opt for MAS. For me, I'd not even prefer to ride MAS if given the chance - my company flies us on MAS and I hated it many times more - my previous job that flies me on Cathay or even Eva provided me enough experience of comparison.
This whole thing is sad - sad for Malaysian. Our airports sucks, our airlines sucks, and we the residents are the biggest victims of these sucker punchers no matter what situation we're put into.
Point in note: Recent Cathay promotion of round-trip ticket from KL to HK cost only RM560. The seats are plenty and rest assure you'll get the superb service and facilities on the flight. Compare this to the never-really-zero-and-mostly-will-cost-more-for-ur-flight-dates AirAsia route to Macau/HK/Shenzhen, how will one choose? I just booked one such fare for HK, so are my friends who know abt the promotion.
We are not really arguing abt the KLIA-East, KLIA-North or KLIA whatever. We're simply fed up with the whole government and the favoritism perceived (truth or not). We just want a Changi-grade airport and a SIA-equivalent national carrier. As Malaysians, I for one just feel tired and mad.
In my opinion it is a good idea that AirAsia is to move into a bigger airport. Look at the amt of destinations that they have grew to serve. I doubt LCCT can hold much longer. I was there a couple of time when I was still living in Malaysia and boy I can tell u. IT SUCKED TO THE MAX. People sitting on the floor everywhere, old people standing and not given a seat and there is lack of ventilation in the building. Although we are paying much less than we would to get on a MAS flight, I do not think that it would make such a huge difference in proving the bare necessity.
Besides think about this, a new airport project would mean the spur of growth which in turn means more people get jobs. If AirAsia is capable, why not run both the terminals ? Just like Washington DC or NY which has at least 3 airports serving domestic flights. I am all out for Tony Fernandes because without him, a lot of current employers of AirAsia would still be in the Unemployed position and we would still suffer from paying MAS' expensive tickets.
wow kenny, u r a good businessman
well written post kenny, it makes sense.
People are against this because they think its just another project to fill up someone's pocket.
Obviously some are going to profit from all this. Who ever opened a shop just to give out free mee ?
What most of us don't realize yet is that the customer is also well inline to benefit greatly from KLIA East.
MAHB is a dinosaur and abides by double standards. Subang was not supposed to be used for commercial aviation, but look at Fireflyz and Berjaya Air. MAHB cannot even provide proper wifi in KLIA as the nation's "hub".
Kenny, stick to what you are good at. Another one of these bloody boring "topical" posts and i aint coming back.
Malaysia is a mutha fuken corrupt place. But who gives a fuk.
Get back to blogging about hot chicks and food.
awesome post kenny
I'm just gonna share my experience as a customer. While booking my flight back to Melbourne, I considered the two airlines, MAS and AirAsia. While some find it hard to decide, all it came down to on my part really was this:- From various sources (online,newspapers,friends), check-in time for LCCT = 2hours plus. End result - I chose MAS :-)
To Tony Fernandes :-
Pretty sure as one of the FEW successfull businessmen in Malaysia, you've got your principles founded and scathing but unfounded words of laymen like us don't really bother you. My friend keep up what you have been doing and continuously reach for the stars, for to many, even the clouds are out of reach ;)
Remember how Kenny apple polish TF before in the past? Just another crony in the making.
SAD!!!!
Yea, go ahead and scam us all while the rakyat suffers a few of these connected ppl will laugh all the way to the bank!
and yes , Gong SEEE Fak Chai!
Kenny,
You are only dabbling at the surface if things. Things that u may not know. TF wont reveal such things to you or the public. Sime will be the one developing it. And what not other cronies lining up to suck us dry.
Not to mention abt the very fact that Labu is too close for comfort to KLIA.
Before you put ur foot in the mouth it is better to gv both sides of the facts and remain a fence sitter.
We know how u would like to apple polish TF's arse but hey dont sell ur soul la!
I believe I have already given both sides of the story by providing links to Dr M, Jeff Ooi, Rocky, Wee Choo Keong and MAB's websites.
What are "the things I may not know" that you speak of? Why don't you tell me these things I may not know"? And how come you know "the things I may not know" but never tell me what exactly they are?
Please enlighten, with facts of course.
good one kenny, Crony can't even support his own argument with facts. Hey u noe what, i dont even think he knows what a fact is. ahah =)
See who the other main benificiaries of this project will be.
Yes, users of LCCT / Airasia would love to have cheaper fares and rates but at whose expense?
Let me tell u of another ANALogy. Yes, screw us while u r at it folks! Users will thank AA / Sime like god. And the rest of the msian will stand to lose $$$ as their money will be used. Contracts will again be lopsided and shrouded in secrecy.
"And the rest of the msian will stand to lose $$$ as their money will be used."
- care to explain how would the rest of the malaysian stand to lose more money compared to the current LCCT?
TF is a succesful bizman (no doubt) but ................... he aint no angel either.
Wow...this has got to be one of the most actively debated issue ever in Kennysia.com's history. More, more, more!
Gong Xi Fa Cai to everyone! Meow meow...
Every year I would go back and visit malaysia and I have to use the KTM, obviously it hasn't changed after 4 years, it's still slow, it never comes on time and there aren't enough seats...meh
awesome article! =)
dont stop them!think of people who needs cheaper flight...who arent very strong in financial....not everyone is rick right?
Those who are in favor of Labu are those who are frequent users and would wnat a better facility. Not wrong though but for goodness sake, think for the rest of the Msians. You want the govt to screw us over and over again with dubious projects so that they can again suck some more money from us?
TF has his reasons and they are valid no doubt but has he exhausted all avenues?
Only 2 things i want to say'
1) KLIA East will not be built. Its just TF arm twisting attempt to get better rates at KLIA. Its as simple as that.
2) Its obvious this post is to curry favour with TF. Its KS attempt to be appointed Airasia face/spokeperson/columnist in the future, if the contract's not already in the bag
KS, its your blog, disallow this comment should you choose too. You know better.
Mr. Milk Road Side (Nairobi),
You can choose not to pose this comment instead of asking ppl to disallowed your comment.
People like you guys cant live in peace cause ...you thinking are so negative and suspicious.
I personally think that this new airport will benefit the whole Malaysian citizens.
Somemore, wheather ppl get a contract or wat, it doesnt matter you rite? You don earn and loss a single cent in your pocket.
Maybe you should go back to the street to sell your milk. Have a nice day