Malaysia's transport minister says he will try to resolve a airfare war between the national carrier and budget airline AirAsia.

On Wednesday, Malaysian Airlines said it would give away fares weekly to 20 Asian destinations.

It prompted claims of unfair competition from AirAsia since the government subsidises some of the national carrier's international flights.

The transport minister, Ong Tee Keat, told state media he will personally step in to investigate the complaint.

AirAsia also wants to be given equal rights to fly the Singapore-Kuala Lumpur air route, one of the region's most lucrative connections.

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