In a statement, the finance ministry maintained that airports were strategic government assets and that Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) has a 60-year lease for the land on which Subang airport stands, until 2067.

The ministry said all efforts to boost the airport’s value will not involve its sale, warning that Putrajaya will not hesitate to take action against those spreading rumours on the matter.

“LTSAAS is one of the 39 airports under MAHB’s management in accordance with the government and MAHB’s operation agreement signed in 2009. MAHB is not the owner of any of these airports,” it said.

It said MAHB was also tasked with developing assets around LTSAAS, with some land sub-leased to Subang SkyPark Sdn Bhd in 2007 for 30 years to manage its third terminal, parking lots and hangarage.

In a separate statement, transport minister Wee Ka Siong said no decision had been made by the Cabinet to approve any proposal for the airport’s sale, quashing speculation on the matter.

“The government understands and reiterates that great care and deliberation are needed before any final decision is made regarding a significant strategic public asset that affects thousands of Malaysians, such as LTSAAS,” he said.

It had been reported that WCT Holdings Bhd, through its subsidiary Subang SkyPark, wanted to acquire and operate the Subang airport until 2092. However, key stakeholders criticised the proposal, warning of losses of up to RM11.9 billion.

Recently, the Malaysia Airports Workers Union (Kesma) warned the government that it was prepared to go on a nationwide strike to protest against the takeover of Subang airport.

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