Transport Minister discusses aviation regulatory frameworks with CAAM for Sarawak-owned airline

Lee (seated, centre), Norazman (seated, second right), and other officials in a group photo following the meeting with the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) at its office in Putrajaya on July 26, 2024.

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, July 30: In a significant move toward advancing Sarawak’s aviation sector, Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, Minister of Transport Sarawak (MOTS), recently held a pivotal meeting with the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) at its office in Putrajaya.

The discussion on July 26 was held with CAAM chief executive officer (CEO) Dato Captain Norazman Mahmud and other CAAM directors, and it focused on the regulatory and operational frameworks required to establish a Sarawak-owned airline following the acquisition of MASwings.

“YB Minister and delegation received a detailed briefing from CAAM on the regulatory approval requirements for establishing a Sarawak-owned airline post-MASwings acquisition, including Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC), aircraft matters, operational readiness, and compliance with international and Malaysian aviation standards and regulations.

“Furthermore, the discussion also touched on potential challenges and mitigation strategies to ensure a smooth and successful transition post-acquisition,” according to a press release.

Additionally, the briefing highlighted the regulatory processes involved in operating cargo drones in Sarawak’s rural areas.

The minister expressed a keen interest in utilising drone technology to enhance the State’s transportation infrastructure, underscoring the government’s commitment to innovation and modernisation.

“The CAAM’s experts offered their guidance that would facilitate regulatory matters and safe integration of cargo drones into Sarawak’s airspace, paving the way for future advancements in this emerging field,” the release stated.

The meeting also laid the groundwork for the upcoming Sarawak Aviation Talk Programme 2024, scheduled for next month in Kuching.

This initiative, proposed by the minister in 2023, aims to raise awareness about aviation safety and regulations within the State.

The meeting was attended by Datu John Wayne Chamberlin Sirau, Deputy Sarawak Attorney-General; Datu Wong Hee Sieng, Permanent Secretary for MOTS; Ahmad Faizal Yaman Ahmad Shafiee, Director of Corporate Services and Investment, Sarawak State Financial Secretary Office; Sio Yew Hua, Aviation Technical Advisor for MOTS and other senior officers. — DayakDaily