Malásia

Malaysia's airport sector is primarily managed by *Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad* (MAHB), which operates the network of international airports, including Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL). The country serves as a strategic hub in Southeast Asia. Industry regulation is overseen by the Malaysian Aviation Commission (MAVCOM), an independent body established under the *Malaysian Aviation Commission Act 2015*. MAVCOM is responsible for regulating consumer rights, airport charges, and competition within the aviation sector.

Passenger rights in Malaysia are protected by the Malaysian Aviation Consumer Protection Code (MACPC) 2016 (with amendments effective in 2026).

• Delays: If a flight is delayed by 2 hours or more, the airline must provide meals, access to telecommunications, and, if necessary, hotel accommodation and transportation.
• Cancellations: In the event of a cancellation, the airline must offer a refund or rerouting. If the cancellation occurs less than 24 hours before departure, passengers are entitled to monetary compensation, except in cases of extraordinary circumstances (e.g., severe weather, security threats).
• Denied Boarding (Overbooking): Airlines must first seek volunteers. In the event of involuntary denied boarding, the passenger is entitled to immediate compensation, care, and rerouting.

MAVCOM regulations stipulate that:

• Carry-on baggage: Airlines must clearly display permitted dimensions and weight limits. There is no federal law mandating free checked baggage; this remains a commercial policy determined by each airline.
• Transparency: Airlines are required to list all fees (baggage fees, insurance, fuel surcharges) transparently at the time of initial booking. "Hidden fees" are prohibited under the MACPC.

The entry of animals is regulated by the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) Malaysia.

• Requirements: An Import Permit issued by the DVS is mandatory prior to arrival.
• Vaccination: The animal must have proof of rabies vaccination (administered at least 30 days, but no more than 12 months, before travel) and common canine/feline vaccines.
• Microchip: Animals are required to have a microchip compliant with ISO standards 11784/11785.
• Quarantine: Depending on the country of origin, the animal may be subject to mandatory quarantine (minimum of 7 days) at government-designated facilities.

• Unaccompanied Minors: Each airline sets its own policy (generally for minors aged 12 to 16). Parents or guardians must sign a waiver of liability during check-in.
• Documentation: Foreign minors under the age of 18 must hold a passport valid for at least 6 months. It is highly recommended to carry a letter of parental authorization if the child is traveling with only one parent or with third parties.

Malaysia follows accessibility guidelines based on the *Persons with Disabilities Act 2008*.

• Special Assistance: Passengers with reduced mobility are entitled to priority assistance (wheelchairs, priority boarding, and disembarkation).
• Airports: Airports operated by MAHB feature comprehensive accessibility infrastructure, including elevators, ramps, and adapted restrooms. It is the airline's duty to provide assistance from check-in to the aircraft, provided the request is made in advance (typically 48 hours before the flight).

• Passport: Minimum validity of 6 months from the date of entry into Malaysia.
• MDAC (Malaysia Digital Arrival Card): Since 2024, it is mandatory for all foreign travelers to complete the digital arrival card (MDAC) online up to 3 days before arrival.
• Visas: Many countries are exempt from visas for tourism purposes (up to 30 or 90 days). Travelers should verify whether their country of origin requires an e-Visa or if they are eligible for visa-free entry.
• Note: There is no ETIAS or similar ETA requirement for Malaysia as of 2026; the MDAC remains the primary digital control mechanism.

• Malaysian Aviation Commission (MAVCOM): https://www.mavcom.my/en/consumer/flysmart/
• Immigration Department of Malaysia (MDAC): https://imigresen-online.imi.gov.my/mdac/main
• Department of Veterinary Services (Pet Import): https://www.dvs.gov.my/
• Official Portal of the Government of Malaysia: https://www.malaysia.gov.my/
• Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB): https://www.malaysiaairports.com.my/