KUCHING: The proposed new international airport here is set to usher in significant economic multiplier effects for Sarawak.
Highlighting this, Minister of Transport Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin said that this project is not merely about building an airport as it represents a transformative opportunity for Sarawak, marking the beginning of an aerotropolis.
He articulated an ambitious vision for the region’s future, emphasising the transformative potential of this major infrastructure project.
“Sarawak is entering a new and exciting era, and this is where our Ministry of Transport will play a very important part of it.
“The new airport is expected to drive significant economic growth for Sarawak, creating jobs and improving connectivity.
“The ministry will begin feasibility studies early next year to identify the most suitable location for the airport, ensuring that every detail, including flight paths, is carefully planned,” he said in his speech during the ministry’s fifth anniversary dinner at Imperial Hotel here last Thursday.
He expressed gratitude to stakeholders and urged continued collaboration in the airport development process.
Lee also reflected on the ministry’s journey, which, despite being relatively young at just five years old, has been characterised by resilience and determination.
“Tonight is not only a celebration of our achievements over the past five years but also a significant milestone for everyone involved with the state Ministry of Transport Sarawak (MOTS),” he stated.
He said, in the past five years, the ministry faced unprecedented challenges, particularly due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which impacted operations for two of those years.
“As a result, the ministry effectively had only three years to implement its planned projects and initiatives.
“Despite these setbacks, the team has made remarkable strides in advancing the transportation sector in Sarawak.
“Establishing a new ministry was no easy feat as we started with a blank slate, with limited resources and a small staff, we faced numerous challenges. However, these experiences have only reinforced our commitment to building a robust transportation framework for Sarawak,” he said.
