JKR: Bario STOLport upgrade passes halfway mark, ahead of schedule

BARIO (March 5): Upgrading works at the Bario STOLport (short take-off and landing port) are progressing ahead of schedule, having surpassed the halfway mark in physical completion, according to the Public Works Department (JKR) Sarawak.

JKR Sarawak reported on its Facebook page that the project has reached 50.62 per cent completion, with full completion targeted for September this year.

“The project is among the Sarawak government’s key initiatives to bolster air transport links in the interior, aimed at improving flight safety standards and operational efficiency for communities in the hinterland who depend heavily on air access,” the department said, following a site inspection by its director Datu Dr Cassidy Morris.

The development involves a wide range of civil and infrastructure works, including site clearing, earthworks, geotechnical works, drainage systems, runway connections, and the construction of a taxiway and access road.

A new Automated Weather System (AWS) building is also being built, alongside repairs to the terminal, mechanical and electrical installations, and the addition of security fencing and wind direction indicators.

Further works include extending the aircraft apron, constructing a head-of-stand road, and resurfacing the existing parking area to enhance overall operational readiness at the airfield.

“The state director’s visit underscores JKR Sarawak’s continued commitment to delivering infrastructure projects efficiently and with quality, ensuring long-term benefits for rural communities across the state,” the statement added.