BETONG: The Bebuling Short Take-Off and Landing (STOL)port could open new economic opportunities for Betong, including tourism, cargo handling and aviation training.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said the facility could serve as more than an air link, with its Collecting, Processing and Packaging Centre (CPPC) supporting the movement of local agricultural products through a cold supply chain.
“For me, the STOLport is a very big game-changer for the people of Betong.
But secondly, we believe this will also open up opportunities for tourists to come to Betong, because Betong has many interesting places to visit”, he told reporters when met after visiting the Sarawakku Sayang 2026 programme at Betong Sports Complex on Friday (Sept 25).
He also said he would submit an application to Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg to establish a pilot school at the Centre for Technology Excellence (CENTEX) in Betong.
“Because if there is a pilot school, they will also need food, accommodation and various other facilities.
“The spillover from this will bring many opportunities.”
Uggah said CENTEX had been consulted on the proposal and the location was considered suitable for aviation training due to the relatively low number of aircraft landing at the facility.
He said the development could eventually create opportunities in areas including aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), while also creating demand for local food and other services.
On when the Bebuling STOLport would begin full operations, Uggah said the timing depended on the certification body, which was currently assessing the facilities.
“We hope it can be operationalised as soon as possible so that we can start seeing the benefits.”
