‘Rivalling any five-star hotel’ – Kuala Lumpur International Airport welcomes CapsuleTransit MAX hotel

Blending luxury, heritage and modernism: CapsuleTransit MAX opens its doors to KLIA2 travellers

MALAYSIA. A new CapsuleTransit MAX hotel claimed to rival any five-star property was opened at Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 2 (KLIA2) on Monday (3 September).

The boutique hotel, featuring 46 premium beds, lounge, spa and a fully equipped gym, takes transit accommodation experience to “a whole new level” for domestic and international travellers, said CapsuleTransit Founder and CEO Ryan Loo.

Minister of Transport of Malaysia Anthony Loke Siew Fook (left) officially launches CapsuleTransit MAX, accompanied by (from left) CapsuleTransit Founder and CEO Ryan Loo, Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad Senior General Manager of Commercial Services Hani Ezra Hussin and WCT Malls CEO Selena Chua. They also took part in the traditional ribbon-cutting ceremony (below).

Speaking at the launch ceremony, Malaysia’s Minister of Transport Anthony Loke Siew Fook said the opening was timely as Malaysia geared up to meet the demands of tourists and business travellers for Visit Malaysia Year 2026.

Anthony Loke Siew Fook and Ryan Loo address media during the launch of CapsuleTransit MAX at KLIA2

“I commend CapsuleTransit for supporting the collaborative effort between the government and private sector to improve our airport offerings,” Loke said. “This new CapsuleTransit MAX is a feature we can proudly showcase to our airport guests.”

CapsuleTransit Founder and CEO Ryan Loo said MAX blends luxury, heritage and modernism with “a touch of fun to create a unique and unforgettable stay for guests”.

He aaded: “MAX is designed to introduce guests to the vibrant culture of Malaysia and showcase the finest of Malaysian talents.” .

The MAX space and ambience was developed in collaboration with international design company Blu Water Studio to reflect Malaysia’s ingenuity and creativity. “Collaborating with renowned digital artist Abdul Shakir, we have infused MAX with genuine Malaysian charm,” Loo said.

CapsuleTransit has partnered with local brands including Acaya, APOM, Ana Tomy, Pestle and Mortar Clothing (PMC) and Typical Us, to champion Malaysian craftsmanship and further enhance the experience.

Established in 2014 in conjunction with KLIA Terminal 2’s opening, CapsuleTransit began its journey with a modest offering of 79 beds.

Over the years, the company has expanded its footprint to meet the growing demand for airport accommodation. By 2018, CapsuleTransit had increased its bed capacity to 204 in KLIA Terminal 2 landside, followed by an additional 70 beds in KLIA Terminal 2 airside by 2019. In June 2023, CapsuleTransit added a further 24 beds in KLIA Terminal 1 landside.

In anticipation of Visit Malaysia Year 2026, CapsuleTransit said it will continue to work closely with Malaysian airport management company Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad to further enhance accommodation options for travellers.

As the first of its kind premium Capsule hotel, Loo pointed out that CapsuleTransit MAX “offers more than just a place to rest”, with services designed to elevate the travel experience, making it as seamless and enjoyable as possible.

Its lounge offers plant-based hot meals, free-flow light nibbles and non-alcoholic beverages. Executive rooms have long baths, a rare feature in airport hotels, and a ‘runway suite’ offers unparalleled views of the airfield. The MAX gym has steam bath facilities and its Business Club offers meeting rooms, conference rooms and an event space.

“We provide a range of amenities that cater to both leisure and business travellers, ensuring that every guest leaves with a smile,” Loo said.

Icing on the cake: CapsuleTransit celebrated its tenth anniversary during the MAX launch: (From left) Ryan Loo, Anthony Loke Siew Fook, Selena Chua and Hani Ezra Hussin

CapsuleTransit MAX also has a merchandise corner, with a selection of products showcasing premium Malaysian creations and brands, offering travellers a sense of place and the opportunity to take home a piece of Malaysia’s vibrant artistic heritage.

“From our carefully curated merchandise to our locally sourced furniture, MAX proudly exhibits some of the best that Malaysia has to offer,” Loo added.

“We at CapsuleTransit have come a long way since our inception in 2014, opening yet another chapter as we proudly unveil our latest endeavour of 46 rooms at KLIA Terminal 2. This launch highlights our commitment to welcoming travellers from all around the world with our renowned Malaysian hospitality, and we strive to position Malaysia as the key destination in Asia.” ✈

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