Penang’s new air logistics complex set to boost northern cargo capacity, says Anthony Loke

Penang International Logistics Aeropark (Pila) is set to significantly enhance air cargo facilities and capacity in Malaysia's northern region, according to Transport Minister Anthony Loke. The project, an expansion of the existing Penang air cargo hub, aims to bolster the region's status as an air logistics center. According to Loke, the expansion will create a "Penang Air Logistics Complex" with considerably increased capacity, making air cargo facilities in the northern region much more robust.

He announced that the construction, carried out by Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) in partnership with Penang Development Corporation (PDC), has already commenced and the project will be officially launched soon. Loke also highlighted that the development is part of MAHB's broader plans to upgrade its air cargo facilities, not just in Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), but also in Penang.

He emphasized that the investment in air cargo hubs will be solely undertaken by MAHB, without government intervention. The Pila project is a private-sector-led endeavor by MAHB, with the government providing facilitation through its collaboration with PDC. This aligns with the government's broader strategy of promoting private-sector involvement and investment in key infrastructure.

The first phase of the project involves constructing a new free commercial zone-class air cargo warehouse building, slated for completion and operation by 2029. The Pila development is projected to handle a cargo capacity of up to 500,000 tonnes annually by 2050, with warehouse space surpassing two million square feet.