MALAYSIA, 07/10/2024 (Asia Mews Channels) - The Miri Airport terminal expansion project will begin in 2024, funded by RM150 million from the federal government. Sarawak Transport Minister Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin confirmed the allocation, which follows years of lobbying.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim approved the project during his visit to Miri, pointing to a 90% increase in airport usage since 2023. The expansion is deemed essential as Miri Airport, the gateway to Northern Sarawak, has exceeded its capacity. In 2019, the airport handled nearly 2.5 million passengers, surpassing its design limits.
Miri's importance stems from its role in both the oil industry and tourism, being close to attractions like Mulu National Park and Niah Caves. Despite the Sarawak government's push for the upgrade, the project had been delayed due to prolonged discussions with federal authorities.
In addition to Miri, Sarawak is also seeking RM71 million from the federal government to upgrade Kuching International Airport, which exceeded its capacity by handling 5.32 million passengers in 2023. Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has also announced plans for a new airport in Kuching that could handle 15 million passengers annually, significantly increasing capacity.
Abang Johari compared Sarawak’s potential growth to Dubai’s transformation, citing the state's natural resources and multilingual society. He also outlined plans for a Sarawak boutique airline, expected to launch in 2025 after acquiring MASwings. This new airline aims to boost regional connectivity and tourism, following a model similar to Emirates Airline.
-- ASIA NEWS CHANNELS