By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Nov 22: The Sarawak government and its government-linked companies (GLCs) are committing RM100 billion to infrastructure development over the next five years, including constructing a new state-of-the-art airport that would support existing infrastructures in accelerating progress towards its 2030 vision.
Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg asserted that Sarawak would take the lead in building the facility, rather than relying on Putrajaya to act.
“The new airport would be modelled after Doha airport in Qatar, integrating cutting-edge technology for seamless travel and accommodating up to 15 million passengers at any given time,” he said during the launch of the first Post-Covid Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 report at Wisma Bapa Malaysia, which was broadcast through Ukas Channels today.
He dismissed concerns that the airport could become a ‘white elephant’ (something that costs a lot of money but has no useful purpose), citing Sarawak’s growing economic activity and tourism demand.
“Even now, hotel rooms are insufficient to meet the surge in visitors. This airport will not only enhance connectivity but also catalyse the services sector,” he added.
With a plan for a new airport, Abang Johari pointed out that the Sarawak government is set to finalise the acquisition of MASwings by the end of the year as part of its plan to establish its own airline.
“This initiative will create an ecosystem to facilitate the movement of people and goods, bringing in tourists and investors directly to Sarawak. With our own airline, we can decide on destinations and prioritise point-to-point travel,” he said.
Drawing comparisons to Dubai’s Emirates, which started with two planes and transformed the city into a global hub within three decades, Abang Johari expressed optimism about the airline’s potential to elevate Sarawak’s connectivity and economic standing.
Apart from the aviation sector, the Premier also highlighted plans to enhance port infrastructure, including building a deep-sea port in Kuching to address limitations of existing ports in Muara Tebas and Senari, which can only handle small vessels during high tide.
“With Sarawak assuming control of Bintulu Port, this development will enable larger vessels to dock and support long-term trade growth. We are planning strategically to secure funding and achieve returns within 15 years,” he explained.
He expressed confidence that these bold investments in infrastructure, renewable energy initiatives such as hydrogen, and new revenue streams would expand Sarawak’s economy and improve household incomes.
“We are halfway through our journey towards Vision 2030. By adopting innovative tools and forward-thinking strategies, we can transform Sarawak and provide a better livelihood for the people,” he added.
Deputy Premiers Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas and Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, along with Sarawak Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki and senior ministers and deputy ministers, were also present at the event.
The first report for Sarawak’s Post-Covid Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 highlights key achievements across six economic sectors and seven enabler sectors, reflecting substantial progress toward a sustainable, inclusive, and prosperous future.
Serving as both a dynamic roadmap and a blueprint for Sarawak’s development, PCDS 2030 represents the government’s steadfast commitment to delivering meaningful outcomes and tangible benefits for all Sarawakians. — DayakDaily
