By Karen Bong
MIRI, Sept 28: The Federal government has approved and will expedite the expansion of the Miri Airport project.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, in announcing this, said that the Madani government recognised the urgent need to increase the airport’s capacity, which has been unable to meet rising passenger demands.
“With input from Minister of Transport Anthony Loke and the Ministry of Finance, we will further discuss this matter,” he said.
He made these remarks when addressing a dinner banquet at a hotel here tonight, which was also attended by Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He noted that the improved airport facilities have become necessary as Miri continues to experience rapid development, particularly in the tourism sector, which has seen a nearly 90 per cent increase in visitors compared to last year.
“Miri has become a major attraction, and the next challenge lies in expanding flight services and airport capacity,” he said, drawing a parallel to Tuaran Airport in Sabah, which, despite initially being overlooked in priority development plans, now requires urgent expansion due to its popularity with tourists from Korea, Japan, and China.
Anwar also called for a forward-thinking approach to infrastructure management, using Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) as an example.
He pointed to the aerotrain services that require immediate upgrades, noting that poor planning and negligence have forced the government to fast-track improvements.
“In fact, management must have a long-term vision as these highly paid professionals should foresee and plan for such needs, including maintenance,” he said.
He emphasised that similar urgency applies to all government projects, particularly those involving dilapidated schools and healthcare facilities.
“Priority projects must be executed swiftly, or we risk stagnation. Malaysia needs to be more competitive, resilient, and dynamic, especially given the unprecedented level of international interest and attention we are receiving,” he stressed. — DayakDaily
