By Doreen Ling
KUCHING, May 17: The Sarawak government will invest RM372 million to upgrade the Tanjung Manis Airport, says Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
“The upgrades will allow the airport to accommodate ATR72 aircraft, and should there be a need, the runway can be further expanded to receive larger planes like the Airbus,” he said during the launch of Tanjung Manis Airport upgrading works today.
Abang Johari added that MASwings has ordered seven new ATR aircraft to reconfigure seating on the new ATR 72 aircraft that will be operated under AirBorneo to enhance passenger comfort and support cargo operations.
He said that out of the seven aircraft, the State government is also considering converting one into a cargo plane to support the logistics system and facilitate the transportation of goods to countries such as Singapore.
Meanwhile, he said that other development plans being considered for Tanjung Manis include a golf course, a hotel, and an affordable housing scheme.
Other than benefiting locals, he said these plans will also draw in visitors to visit Tanjung Manis to boost its tourism sector.
“Tanjung Manis has its own uniqueness, and we must think of ways to entice visitors to come, such as using food that cannot be found anywhere else. Food can always be an attraction,” he said.
He added that fishing could also potentially draw in more visitors, due to the artificial reefs placed in the waters in the area, which have increased the number of fish.
Abang Johari also stated that AirBorneo will play a role in marketing and branding efforts, with the potential to offer travel packages aimed at promoting the area.
Meanwhile, he also spoke about revitalising Tanjung Manis to be in line with the global shifts towards environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles and changing global economic conditions influenced by climate change.
Abang Johari explained that previously, Tanjung Manis was originally envisioned by the late former Chief Minister Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud as a downstream timber industry hub.
“We must continue his legacy more sustainably because the global economy has changed, and whether we want to or not, Tanjung Manis has to align with these principles,” he said.
Additionally, the Premier expressed concern about coastal erosion and urged the Economic Planning Unit (EPU) to study ways to mitigate its impact through the construction of an effective barrier that would not only protect the coastline but also help maintain beach cleanliness. —DayakDaily
