IPOH: The upgrading of the Sultan Azlan Shah airport here is expected to enhance trade, industry and tourism among other areas, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The Prime Minister said this was another step forward by Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB) to boost its capacity.
"Previously, when the government aimed to expand the facilities, our efforts were hindered because of limited flights from Kuala Lumpur to Ipoh," he said when launching the airport upgrading project here on Friday (April 25).
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“People often choose to travel by car instead. But now, we are thinking more broadly with routes from Senai, from Singapore, and possibly expanding to areas such as Kota Kinabalu and Kuching.
“These developments will give the airport a unique appeal.
“That is why... the Transport Ministry (was picked) as one of the key ministries for such projects that are deemed a priority,” he added.
Present were Perak Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad, Transport Minister Anthony Loke, Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming, and MAHB managing director Datuk Mohd Izani Ghani.
Anwar added that, from a national budget perspective, the cost of developing transport infrastructure is always high.
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“But we must push forward, as this is strategic not only for the country’s development but also for tourism.
“Currently, with several private initiatives and independently funded companies like MAHB, the burden on the government can be reduced.
“This network can be developed with non-government funding, just like the upgrade of the Ipoh airport, which creates opportunities without drawing on government resources,” he added.
Anwar also said cooperation among federal ministries and the state government is a critical factor in the project's success.
“I would like to take this opportunity to express my appreciation and gratitude. As you all know, this airport is near Tambun, so I felt compelled to attend, and I am truly pleased to be here.
“This is just the beginning. To Datuk Mohd Izani, I extend my thanks.
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“And to all the staff, do continue to work well, with efficiency. Every contribution you make has meaning not only to your own family but also to the greater family of our nation.
“Today, Malaysia is recording impressive figures in terms of economic growth, investment, and a significant increase in tourism, including here in Perak, especially in Ipoh and the surrounding areas,” he added.
On Jan 31, Nga said the government had approved an allocation of RM60mil for the expansion of the airport.
The project will be carried out in two phases, the first costing RM8mil and the second, RM52mil.
It aims to increase the airport's capacity to 700,000 passengers annually from 500,000 at present.
The upgrade includes a cargo terminal spanning over 10ha of land owned by the Perak State Development Corporation near the airport.
