Big WIG set to soar in Malacca

Flying low: The ‘Jebat M727’ cruising across the Straits of Malacca during the launch of the multi-purpose aircraft. — Bernama

MALACCA: The state will manufacture the multi-purpose Wing-In-Ground (WIG) aircraft that can cruise little more than a few feet over flat surfaces, most often over water by 2017.

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Idris Haron said the manufacture of the aircraft, using South Korean technology, would lure more investors to the state.

The ground effect vehicle is a transition between a hovercraft and an aircraft and can be used for search and rescue operations in the ocean.

“Besides, it can also be used for tourism purposes,” he said after launching the aircraft called Jebat M727.

He said the aircraft, built by Aron Rinani Sdn Bhd was capable of flying at a height of 150m and can travel as far as 800km.

Aron Rinani president Noor Azerai Ahmad said the company has received orders for more than 100 units of the aircraft from several countries and the first unit, costing US$1mil (RM3.5mil), would be ready by June.

However, the assembly plant in Masjid Tanah, Alor Gajah, can only produce seven such units a year.

“A new plant will be constructed in Teluk Gong, Alor Gajah, which, once completed, can produce 50 ground effect vehicles annually,” he added.

On another matter, Idris said the monitoring of development projects in the state must be improved to avert landslides.

He said the state had outlined a proper development plan for residential areas, but without proper monitoring, it could lead to other problems that could affect the people.

Idris added that local authorities should take proactive measures to monitor development programmes and enforce strict action against developers who failed to adhere to the state’s development plans.

Earlier, Idris visited several houses at Kampung Bertam Malim that was affected by flash floods and landslides believed to be linked to a project near the housing area. — Bernama