Just had to say that the PPL in HK is way much better than those in Malaysia.

If there is any airport to hang around for a few hours without lounge access, I would choose Changi. Yes, you may have to pay a bit for the food but I think it's reasonable enough the prices.

As an aside, I like the PPLs at LHR. Was recently at the one at T2 after arrival.

Not many people.

From the few flights I take in a year, PPL is almost always full and non-relaxing to be in.

But if it's free, why not?

Priorities of some may not always be aligned to others. Just like some people are willing to pay business class fares from personal funds while others will only do so if paid for by employers.

A lot of free access to PPL with credit cards are being removed as it stands.

That said, PPL isn't exactly that great either but sure beats sitting on an airport chair twiddling your thumbs.