KUCHING: Plans are underway to upgrade rural airport infrastructure in Sarawak as part of efforts to improve air connectivity and expand services to remote communities.
Minister of Transport, Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin, said the state is reviewing existing airports such as Tanjong Manis and the Bebuling Short Take-Off and Landing Airport (STOLport) in Betong with plans for upgrades including runway extensions to accommodate larger aircraft.
“We have proposals for runway lengthening, starting with Bario Airport. By the end of this year, it can handle twin-otter aircraft with a maximum of 19 passengers,” he said at a press conference at the Kuching International Airport VIP Terminal on Friday (Jan. 2), stressing that safety remains the priority.
While the airports fall under federal jurisdiction, the state government is actively engaging with the federal authorities to ensure that upgrades meet operational needs.
“Airport upgrades are under federal government control, but we are submitting proposals and collaborating closely to ensure Sarawak’s rural air connectivity improves,” Lee said.
The minister said infrastructure improvements are part of a broader plan to expand AirBorneo’s services to communities that are not easily accessible by road or other transport modes.
The upgrades will not only improve operational safety but also enable more passengers to travel efficiently across rural Sarawak.
Lee added that the state is taking a phased approach. Initially, AirBorneo will continue operating Twin Otter aircraft for rural air services, with studies underway to determine aircraft type and capacity for future regional services.
“We are studying the next phase to turn AirBorneo into a regional airline, including compliance measures and type of aircraft. Let the team study first, we will make decisions professionally,” he said.
