KOTA BARU: Sultan Ismail Petra Airport (LTSIP) has the potential to evolve into a strategic regional hub, catering to the southern Thailand market, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The Prime Minister said that through proper strategic planning, the international transport links from the airport to major cities such as Singapore, Jakarta and Bangkok would bring significant economic benefits to Kelantan.
He said a more open approach in supporting the development of such transport infrastructure would benefit local residents and contribute to the country’s overall economic growth.
“Besides meeting the needs of the people who use this facility, it is also necessary for us to boost economic activity, trade and tourism.
“The potential in Kelantan will not be sidelined or neglected if we give it a bit of attention and focus,” he said at the opening of the new terminal of LTSIP here yesterday.
Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, said the proactive move is expected to further stimulate the local economy, placing Kelantan on the right track to progress in line with the nation’s development.
He also praised the close cooperation between the federal and state governments in ensuring the smooth implementation and success of the RM440mil LTSIP project, Bernama reported.
The Prime Minister explained that the large-scale project, which cost nearly half a billion ringgit, including the runway extension works, proceeded due to its strategic importance to the country, despite the economic constraints that existed at the time the decision was made.
He said the government consistently takes a realistic approach in planning national development, setting aside differing views if they benefit the people.
Anwar stressed that the completion of the infrastructure facility is only a starting step and should not stop at merely constructing “beautiful buildings”.
He urged the Federal Government machinery and the state government to proactively plan follow-up measures to optimise existing facilities through synergy across key sectors, including trade, investment, transport, tourism and agriculture.
Anwar also described LTSIP as an exceptional airport.
“This airport is among the most beautiful, modern and artistic. If you want to see an airport with Islamic and Malay art, come to Kota Baru,” he added.
Also present were Transport Minister Anthony Loke, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar and Kelantan Mentri Besar Datuk Mohd Nassuruddin Daud.
LTSIP is equipped with more than 20 check-in counters, multi-storey parking facilities, dedicated taxi lanes, a terminal fire and rescue station, expanded aircraft parking space and a cashless operating system to improve efficiency and passenger comfort.
It can now accommodate up to four million passengers annually, up from the previous capacity of 1.5 million.
The terminal area has been expanded from 12,000sq m to 36,000sq m, with a new layout separating the departure hall on the upper floor and the arrival hall on the lower floor to reduce congestion.
The number of aircraft parking aprons has also been increased.
