Malaysia’s main gateway, Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), is testing a new system that could change the way passengers are picked up and dropped off and it’s already sparking plenty of discussions online.

Starting 1 September, KLIA rolled out a trial of its Vehicle Access Management System (VAMS) at Terminal 1, covering both the departure drop-off area (Level 5) and arrival pickup zone (Level 3). Terminal 2 will join the trial phase on 15 September.

Under this system, vehicles will have 10 minutes of free access to drop off or pick up passengers. After that, the details of potential charges or rules are yet to be officially announced.

According to Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB) Managing Director Datuk Mohd Izani Ghani, this move is in line with practices adopted by major international airports and is part of preparations for Visit Malaysia Year 2026. The system is designed to reduce traffic congestion, shorten waiting times, enhance security, and create a smoother travel experience.






The trial will run until 30 November, and during this period, no penalties will be imposed as the airport studies traffic flow and driver behaviour.

However, the introduction of VAMS has stirred mixed reactions online. While some netizens welcome the system, saying it will prevent vehicles from parking for long hours in busy pickup zones, others feel that 10 minutes is too short, especially for international arrivals where luggage handling and walking distances take time. Suggestions for a 15 to 20-minute window have been widely shared.

MAHB has also clarified those rumours circulating on social media, including claims about needing a minimum RM30 Touch ‘n Go balance or instant RM100 fines are false.

The new system aims to eliminate long-standing issues of drivers waiting indefinitely in pickup areas, which often causes traffic bottlenecks and frustration for other passengers. Whether 10 minutes will be enough to balance efficiency and convenience remains to be seen, and the trial period will play a key role in shaping the final implementation.


Source / Image Credit : Malaysia Airports , AutoBuzz.my