BETONG: The completion of the RM296 million Bebuling STOLport is poised to open a new chapter of development for Betong.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas described the newly completed facility as a game changer, providing Betong with a gateway for tourists while facilitating the movement of locally produced goods to wider markets.
Uggah said the STOLport underwent a test landing on Sept 18, with a test flight from Kuching to Bebuling taking only about 15 minutes.
“This is a game changer. If we want to travel to Betong from Kuching by road, whether via the Pan Borneo Highway, Coastal Highway or other routes, it takes about three hours.
“But with this STOLport, it will write a new chapter of development for Betong.
“From now on, we can have a gateway from Betong to the world, and from the world to Betong and the surrounding region,” he said.
He said this when speaking at the Sarawakku Sayang programme, which was officiated by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, here today (Sept 26).
Uggah, who is also Bukit Saban assemblyman, said the runway was extended from 900 metres to 1,125 metres after the Premier found the original length insufficient for larger aircraft.
With the extended runway, he said aircraft carrying up to 16 passengers would be able to use the STOLport.
He said the improved connectivity could bring a multiplier effect to Betong, particularly in tourism, agriculture and other economic activities.
“We have very big potential for tourism, and this is an opportunity that has now become a reality with the completion of Bebuling STOLport.
“We have our culture and traditions which will attract visitors.
“I hope the Tourism Minister can help develop packages for people to come to Betong, together with our homestays, and that will boost Betong’s development,” he said.
Uggah said the STOLport would also complement several economic projects being developed in the division.
These include the 600-acre Bebuling Agropark, which has secured four anchor companies, another agropark at Lubok Tamang and collecting, processing and packaging centres.
He said the Regional Corridor Development Authority (RECODA) has developed facilities to process products from Betong, while an industrial park would further support economic activities linked to the new air connectivity.
“It is not only about building an airport. Various development programmes have also been arranged to support the development of this airport,” he said.
