By Ashley Sim
KUCHING, Nov 15: The runway at Tanjung Manis Airport will undergo upgrading works starting next year, according to Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
Abang Johari emphasised the importance of airport infrastructure for Sarawak’s tourism development.
“As a matter of fact, airport infrastructure is important for Sarawak to develop the tourism sector.
“For the Tanjung Manis airport, we will extend the runway and approach to the terminal, and we need the Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) and also a prerequisite for us to operate the airport.
“So the cost will be between RM7 and RM15 million, and this will be one of many access points to Tanjung Manis and the Rajang Delta area,” he told a press conference after officiating at the opening ceremony for the Tanjung Manis Administration Centre in Sibu today.
He noted the airport serves both tourism and business purposes.
“We will succeed in the modern agriculture industry in this region as a food basket because there must be connectivity from the perspective of this infrastructure, as well as because we have shipbuilding.
“So, what benefits is the agricultural economy, apart from carbon trading, and the second one is tourism. Therefore, this becomes a hub,” he added.
Furthermore, Abang Johari stated in his speech that the Tanjung Manis airport, as well as the landing, runway, and infrastructure involved, will be expanded.
“We will start the upgrading works next year,” he remarked. — DayakDaily
