Minister Anthony Loke explains Aeroline suspension; MOT simplifies bus terminal licensing at malls
SEPANG: Transport Minister Anthony Loke today clarified that the suspension involving Aeroline’s operations was not about restricting convenience, but about ensuring safety and regulatory compliance for all transport operators.
Speaking at a press conference during the Transport Expo Asia 2025, Loke said he had met with representatives from Aeroline on Monday to discuss their concerns, adding that the company had failed to fully comply with regulations governing passenger pick-up and drop-off locations.
“I told them clearly — you have not been following the regulations. The public often looks at it from a convenience point of view, but our priority must also be safety,” he said.
“We have to balance between convenience and safety.”
Aeroline representatives had raised that they had been operating for 33 years without once meeting a Transport Minister.
“I told them, you cannot fault me for that. I’ve only been a minister for three years. The previous ministers didn’t meet you, but I took the liberty to hear you out,” Loke said.
He explained that while the ministry understands the demand for convenient drop-off points for tourists and passengers, operators must adhere to safety standards and operate only from licensed terminals.
One major issue discussed was Aeroline’s use of roadside stops such as the Corus KLCC in central Kuala Lumpur.
“I told them point blank — roadside stops are a no-no,” Loke said. “However, we are prepared to facilitate operations in areas with proper facilities, such as shopping malls.”
Among the proposed approved terminals are One Utama in Bandar Utama, where the Ministry Transport Ministry has directed the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD) to help facilitate licensing, and LaLaport in Kuala Lumpur, which has a dedicated bus lane.
Other potential sites include IOI City Mall in Putrajaya and similar commercial centres with suitable infrastructure.
Loke emphasised that the ministry is not forcing operators to use only major transport hubs such as the Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS) or Terminal Bersepadu Gombak (TBG).
“It is not true that we are forcing all operators to go to TBS or TBG. We are not. But every operator must run from a safe, licensed, and suitable area.
“We are simplifying the process to make more places eligible as bus terminals,” he said.
He added that while bus operators themselves cannot directly apply for terminal licences, the Ministry is engaging with shopping malls and building owners to help them obtain approvals from local councils.
“The Transport Ministry is an enabler of economic development — we know our role very well,” he said.
“But we cannot compromise on safety. If an accident happens in front of a shopping mall, the public will blame MOT for allowing it.”
Loke urged the public to see the issue from multiple perspectives. “We want convenience, yes, but we must prioritise safety.
“We are not restricting operators — we are facilitating and balancing both.”
