Premier: Investors eye Sarawak’s new airport project

KUCHING (Oct 27): Sarawak’s major strategic development initiatives are gaining momentum, with the latest project – a new airport – attracting investor interest, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

According to Abang Johari, Sarawak will continue to emphasise its major strategic development, with the new airport and other strategic infrastructure, such as ports, which he had announced, as key components of this vision.

“This airport will be developed by the Sarawak government, and it appears that there are already investors interested in partnering with us.

“That means we started it, we triggered it, with our own funds, but now other players are coming in to invest in our new airport,” he said.

Abang Johari said this in his speech at the closing ceremony of Karnival UDA 2024 @ Sarawak, organised by UDA Holdings Berhad in collaboration with the Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC).

The three-day event, held at the Galeri Jualan @ Tapak Projek Neu Pendington, Jalan Datuk Marican Salleh, began on Oct 25 and concluded today.

Elaborating further, Abang Johari explained that the new airport will be modelled after major international hubs like Abu Dhabi and Doha, integrating the latest technology for a seamless experience.

“Our airport will feature advanced technology, where all processes – from check-in to immigration – are streamlined, making it easy for people to move in and out.

“This modern infrastructure will enhance convenience for both visitors and frequent travellers, supporting our goal to elevate connectivity through robust digital infrastructure,” he said.

Abang Johari also emphasised that the airport will be built to high standards, capable of handling up to 15 million passengers annually.

“Our new airport, we don’t want to build it ‘alang-alang’ (half-heartedly).

“If we achieve this, it will bring in tourists, which boosts demands for hotels and retail businesses. We can’t rely solely on locals for a thriving economy; we need to create a market, and that market can be created provided you provide basic infrastructures,” he added.

Reiterating the importance of support, including from investors, Abang Johari shared that he conducted a case study comparing the development of Dubai to that of Sarawak.

He highlighted how Dubai transformed from a barren desert into a thriving metropolis through strategic investments and infrastructure development.

“About 25 years ago, Dubai was just sand – nothing but desert. But what the UAE, particularly Dubai with Abu Dhabi’s support, did was build a major airport, turning that desert into malls and investment hubs, attracting people worldwide.

“If Dubai can do it, Sarawak can too. Moreover, we already have natural attractions; we just need connectivity.”

He also hinted at Sarawak’s plans to acquire new aircraft in addition to those operated by MASwings.

“Emirates started with just two planes, and now they have advanced fleets and international crews – including Sarawakians.

“Despite a small population, Dubai became a strategic centre in the Middle East, one of the world’s best.

“And that’s why, based on that case study, why don’t we start with MASwings and use their planes for now. When the time comes, we can invest in new aircraft, why worry,” he added.