IPOH: Ipoh will have a new direct air link to Singapore from Dec 1, with Batik Air Malaysia set to operate the route using the Boeing 737 MAX.
The announcement comes after the completion of Phase One upgrading works at the Sultan Azlan Shah Airport (LTSAS).
Perak tourism, industry, investment and corridor development committee chairman Loh Sze Yee said the new service is a significant milestone for the state and marks the beginning of a new era for Ipoh’s flight network.
“With Batik Air’s participation, Ipoh routes are now more diverse.
“This will make travel easier for both domestic and international tourists, while also offering more options for Perak residents commuting to Singapore for business, education and family purposes,” he said in a statement on Tuesday (Sept 23).
Loh said the state government, through the state Economic Strategic Unit and Tourism Perak, had held talks with Batik Air’s top management in April before reaching an agreement.
He noted that Singapore remains a key international tourism market for Perak and an important transit point for residents travelling abroad.
“The new route is expected to strengthen Ipoh–Singapore connectivity while boosting the state’s tourism and investment potential,” he said.
He said LTSAS recorded 540,000 passengers in 2024, a 4.6% increase from the previous year.
“As of May this year, passenger numbers have already reached nearly 220,000.
“With RM8mil in upgrading works completed in April, the airport’s capacity has increased from 240 to 510 passengers per hour, and annually from 500,000 to 700,000.
“The Perak state government will continue to push for more international flights to Ipoh and welcomes cooperation with airlines and the tourism industry to make Perak a more competitive international gateway,” Loh added.
