Sarawak Transport Ministry outlines five priorities to strengthen aviation sector
by Jenifer Laeng · Borneo Post OnlineMIRI (Dec 17): The Sarawak Transport Ministry (MOTS) remains firmly committed to five key priorities — aviation safety, infrastructure development, connectivity expansion, talent development, and innovation with sustainability — to steer the state’s aviation sector amid an increasingly complex and dynamic landscape.
Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin said these priorities would continue to guide the ministry’s policies, investments and partnerships moving forward.
“Aviation safety remains our highest priority. We will continue to strengthen regulatory compliance, foster a strong safety culture and enhance emergency preparedness in close cooperation with the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) and industry partners,” he said when officiating at the MOTS appreciation dinner for aviation industry players and stakeholders here on Tuesday.
On infrastructure development, Lee said the ministry is pressing ahead with several key projects, including advancing the outcomes of the new Kuching International Airport feasibility study, which is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2026.
He said the study would form the foundation for a future-ready airport capable of supporting long-term passenger growth, cargo development and Sarawak’s role as a regional aviation hub.
In Limbang, Lee said the airport runway extension project — increasing the runway length from 1,500 metres to 1,790 metres — is currently underway.
“Upon completion in early 2027, this enhancement will allow the airport to accommodate private jets and expand operational flexibility,” he said.
As for the new Lawas Airport, Lee said Phase 1 of the project has commenced, with civil works beginning in Oct 2025.
He said the project reflects the state government’s continued commitment, through MOTS, to improving accessibility and promoting socio-economic development in northern Sarawak.
Lee added that efforts are also being intensified to enhance Sarawak’s regional and international air connectivity in support of economic growth, tourism and people-to-people exchanges.
“These include the introduction of chartered flights from Haikou operated by 9 Air of China, as well as flights from Shenzhen by Loong Air.
“We are also working closely with our partners to expand connectivity from Guangzhou, with further developments expected from 2026 onwards,” he said.
On human capital, Lee said the ministry will continue to invest in talent development, training and institutional capacity to ensure Sarawak has a skilled workforce to support a modern and resilient aviation ecosystem.
“At the same time, we will embrace innovation and sustainability by aligning Sarawak’s aviation development with emerging technologies, environmental responsibility and global best practices,” he added.
At the same function, Lee also expressed appreciation to MASwings for continuing to shoulder the critical responsibility of providing Rural Air Services across Sarawak since 2007, often under challenging conditions to serve interior and remote communities.
“The dedication, professionalism and perseverance shown by the management, pilots, engineers, cabin crew and ground personnel reflect a deep commitment to public service and to the people of Sarawak,” he said.
Among those present at the dinner were Transport Deputy Minister Dato Henry Harry Jinep, MASwings chief operating officer Suresh Singam, AirBorneo chief executive officer Bruno Navet, and Miri resident Galong Luang.