TANJUNG MANIS AIRPORT TO BE UPGRADED TO ACCOMMODATE LARGER AIRCRAFT

SIBU, May 17 (Bernama) -- The Sarawak government will upgrade the Tanjung Manis Airport in the Mukah Division, about 112 kilometres (km) from here, to enable larger aircraft to land.

The Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (PUSAKA) said today that the airport, which was opened in 2001, is currently only able to accommodate light aircraft like the Twin Otter and the upgrading project is estimated to cost between RM300 million and RM800 million, subject to the results of a feasibility study that is being carried out.

“With better facilities, the Tanjung Manis Airport is expected to be the main entry point to the Central Region, thus spurring economic growth and opening job opportunities for the locals,” it said in a statement today.

The airport upgrading project involves the construction of a new terminal and air traffic control tower, runway extension as well as immigration, Customs and safety facilities.

The airport upgrading project launch ceremony was officiated by Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg at Dewan IKS PUSAKA, Tanjung Manis today.

PUSAKA said the project is a key incentive in the development planning for the central region, comprising the divisions of Kapit, Sibu, Sarikei and Mukah, that is aimed at stimulating economic growth and improving the living standards of local communities.

Under this initiative, the construction of the Rajang-Jalan Pasi Bridge has already been completed and was officiated by Abang Johari today, whereby this infrastructure cuts down the travel distance from Tanjung Manis to Sarikei from 122 kilometres (km) to just 53km.

In addition, the Kampung Tanjung Manis Expansion Scheme, involving the construction of 69 semi-detached houses on a 6.92-hectare site, has also been planned to improve rural living standards by providing comprehensive basic amenities.

The Sarawak government will also develop the ‘Anjung Usahawan’ project, which will feature seven double-storey commercial shoplots as modern business premises for local entrepreneurs, particularly small and medium enterprise (SME) operators.

“In a bid to promote Tanjung Manis as a tourism centre, plans are also afoot to develop a golf course and resort near Pantai Belawai and the Tanjung Manis Airport, complete with facilities such as chalets, a marina and a three-star hotel,” it added.

-- BERNAMA