Airport expansion gets the go-ahead

MIRI: The long-awaited expansion of Miri Airport has finally received the green light, though the exact allocation of funds remains undisclosed.

The project, initially proposed by Malaysia Airports Berhad (MAB) in collaboration with the Ministry of Transport Sarawak, is expected to cost RM150 million.

Minister Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin, confirmed the approval, noting the urgent need for expansion due to the airport’s inability to accommodate the rising number of passengers.

“The current capacity of Miri Airport is only 2 million passengers per year, but statistics from 2019 show that it reached almost 2.5 million,” Lee told a press conference today (Sept 29).

The announcement of the airport’s expansion was made by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim during a state dinner on Saturday.

Lee revealed that the project had been on the table since 2017 but had faced delays in implementation.
“We were able to discuss this project with the Prime Minister, and he has given his approval,” Lee added.

“The expansion is crucial to cater to the growing passenger numbers and to prepare for future international flights.”

While the project was approved several years ago, progress had stalled until this year.

“I’ve been in constant discussion with Transport Minister Anthony Loke, and he has agreed to include the allocation in this year’s budget,” Lee said.

In addition to the Miri Airport expansion, efforts are also underway to improve the facilities at Kuching International Airport (KIA).

A total of RM71 million has been proposed for upgrades at KIA.

Lee thanked both Anwar and Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg for their support in securing the approval for these critical infrastructure projects.