A social media influencer’s reaction to an RM384 parking charge at Kuala Lumpur International Airport’s (KLIA) Long-Term Car Park (LTCP) has sparked widespread discussion online, with many travellers questioning how clearly parking rate changes are communicated.
In a video that quickly gained traction, the influencer, known widely as Pudds, shared her experience after parking at the LTCP for 12 days and expressed her surprise at the final amount charged. The bill totalled RM384, despite her initial expectation that it would be less than RM220.
“Here’s a PSA to everyone planning to go to KLIA. Do not park at the long-term car park,” Pudds said, before revealing her receipt.
Misleading rates and expired promotions
According to her, she had relied on parking rates she believed were still being promoted and did not realise the pricing structure had changed. Pudds also said she could not find clear updates regarding the revised rates on Malaysia Airports’ social media pages.
Furthermore, she added that an online parking calculator had estimated the cost for the same duration at around RM213. However, she later learned from airport staff that these lower rates now only apply to advance online bookings.
The incident has since sparked broader online conversations, especially among travellers who frequently rely on long-term parking as a more affordable alternative to ride-hailing services or airport transfers.
Malaysia Airports responded
In response to the backlash, Malaysia Airports clarified in the comments section of her post that the lower LTCP rates mentioned were part of a promotional campaign that ended on 24 February. The current drive-in charges, it stated, are standard pre-promotion rates rather than newly introduced fees.
Nevertheless, Malaysia Airports acknowledged that the situation had caused confusion and admitted there is room for improvement in how parking promotions and pricing updates are communicated to the public.
The airport operator also explained that its online parking pre-booking platform, introduced on 25 February, offers lower rates than standard drive-in fees, particularly for travellers who book early or park for longer periods.
It added that parking information is regularly updated on its website, and promised that efforts would be made to improve future announcements on social media.
Escalation to the relevant authorities
In a follow-up post last night (17 May), Pudds pointed out that Malaysia Airports has since removed the promotional campaign post. She also mentioned that she is considering reporting the matter to the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) in pursuit of a refund.
What do you think of the whole situation?
Also read: 73yo Man Forced to Walk Home After His Vehicle Was Blocked by a Double-Parked Car in KL
