Action should be taken against Malindo Airways Sdn Bhd, the operator for Malindo Air, for failing to remit airport tax amounting to some RM70 million, said social activist, Tunku Abdul Aziz Ibrahim.

He said the airline has reportedly failed to pay the tax it collected on behalf of Malaysia Airports Holding Bhd (MAHB).

He said the money, representing the airport (passenger) tax collected by Malindo Air must be paid when due and should not be delayed.

"The Minister of Transport and the Managing Director of MAHB will be happy to assist the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) and the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) on the matter.

"These agencies may investigate this case which could have a widespread economic, diplomatic and domestic political implications for Malaysia. Let us give practical effect and substance to the government's transformation programmes," he told a press conference here today.

He said there was a justifiable concern that Malindo Air, a budget-licensed airline, was operating from KLIA instead of KLIA2, taking up much needed space intended for full-service airlines.

Abdul Aziz, who is the Board Chairman of the Advisory Board of MACC, however said, he was speaking as a social activist on the matter.

-- BERNAMA