In a filing with Bursa Malaysia, the airport operator stated the request for suspension in the trading of all the company’s securities, effective from 9am to 5pm, today.

MAHB’s shares were last traded at RM10.40 per share.

For context, the privatisation of MAHB, one of the largest airport operators, has recently resurfaced, with reports suggesting that MAHB could be privatised by its major owners before a stake sale to the private equity firm Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP).

Khazanah Nasional Bhd and EPF hold 33.2% and 7% of MAHB, respectively.

A news report indicated that a 30% share in MAHB would then be sold to GIP, an infrastructure investment vehicle that invests in equities and selected debt.

It was also reported that the current acting group CEO, Mohamed Rastam Shahrom will be appointed as the permanent CEO after seven months of serving in the acting role.

Mohamed was appointed as MAHB’s acting group CEO on Oct 25 last year, after Iskandar Mizal Mahmood stepped down from his role as managing director at the end of his two-year contract a day prior.

Last month, a report emerged regarding MMC Corp Bhd selling its holdings in MMC Ports Holdings Bhd to GIP.

However, the proposal was withdrawn after GIP backed out of its bid due to the parties failing to reach an agreement on a price for the stake.

The transport ministry commented on the issue, stating that the ministry has no objections if MMC Corp plans to divest its 49% stake in MMC Ports, even to foreign entities.

However, its minister, Loke Siew Fook emphasised that issues concerning concessions and the ownership status of the nation’s key assets need to be scrutinised.

He further added that the decision to sell equity interest is a corporate matter and lies within the company’s purview.

“Presently, MAHB manages 39 airports throughout Malaysia, including five international airports, 17 domestic airports, and 17 short take-off and landing ports.

“Additionally, it owns and manages one international airport in Istanbul, Turkey,” it said.