Bangladesh, Aug. 20 -- Malaysia is strengthening efforts to position itself as one of the Asia-Pacific's leading air connectivity hubs by expanding airport capacity and developing more international routes.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke said the strategy would extend beyond Kuala Lumpur, with airports in Penang, Kota Kinabalu and Kuching expected to play a larger role in connecting Malaysia with regional and global markets.

Loke said stronger air links would facilitate the movement of people, goods and investment while deepening economic ties with major Asian centers.

He highlighted the growing connectivity between Kuala Lumpur and Hong Kong, which are less than four hours apart and share the same time zone. Cathay Pacific currently ...