Kuala lumpur: The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has recommended that the shareholding in Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) by Khazanah Nasional Bhd and the Employees Provident Fund (EPF) be maintained at a minimum of 70 percent to ensure strategic control over the airport operator remains within national bounds.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, PAC chairman Datuk Mas Ermieyati Samsudin emphasized that this recommendation aims to protect national sovereignty and strategic interests amidst changes in MAHB's ownership structure. She highlighted the importance of maintaining domestic shareholding under Khazanah and the EPF at no less than 70 percent to preserve the country's strategic control.

The committee further suggested that any future changes to MAHB's equity ownership structure or the disposal of its strategic assets require Cabinet approval through a transparent process. PAC also urged MAHB to enhance strategic collaboration with various ministries and councils to coordinate the development of the aviation industry.

Mas Ermieyati advocated for early engagement with industry stakeholders, particularly local airlines, in infrastructure development planning to ensure facilities meet operational requirements. She recommended that MAHB establish a regular consultation mechanism with major airlines to facilitate a consultative approach in development planning.

On the subject of transparency, PAC advised that MAHB continue publishing periodic reports on its operational performance and key performance indicators (KPIs) for public access, even after delisting. The Finance Ministry and the Ministry of Transport were also urged to ensure MAHB submits regular progress reports on high-impact projects to enable effective monitoring.

The committee recommended that project progress reports be tabled in the Dewan Rakyat and submitted to the relevant Parliamentary PAC for continuous oversight. Additionally, procurement procedures and the contractor screening system should be tightened in collaboration with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) and the Malaysia Competition Commission (MyCC) to prevent cartel practices and ensure the quality of public infrastructure.