KUCHING (May 29): Sarawak views the decentralised approach for the proposed New Kuching International Airport (NKIA) as a more collaborative development model that allows greater state involvement in planning and implementation while supporting long-term aviation and economic objectives.

Welcoming the federal government’s approach, State Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin reaffirmed the state’s commitment to strengthening aviation infrastructure to support future economic growth and rising passenger demand.

“The proposed NKIA is part of Sarawak’s long-term vision to strengthen our position as a regional aviation hub and enhance connectivity for both passengers and cargo,” he said in a statement recently.

The statement followed a courtesy call on Federal Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook in Putrajaya on Tuesday, where discussions focused on the proposed airport, including the submission of the Aerodrome Development Request to the federal government.

The meeting also covered broader transport issues affecting Sarawak, including aviation development, domestic air connectivity, railway infrastructure and logistics.

Lee proposed reviving the Kuching-Sibu, Kuching-Bintulu and Kuching-Miri routes under the Rural Air Services (RAS) Public Service Obligation (PSO) framework, saying the move could improve connectivity and ease travel costs for Sarawakians.

“Air connectivity is extremely important for Sarawak due to our geographical size and dispersed population.

“Reviving these routes under the PSO framework could help make domestic travel more affordable and accessible,” he said.

The introduction of airfare cap mechanisms for the affected routes was also discussed.

In response, Loke suggested that AirBorneo explore operating the routes commercially using ATR72 aircraft.

The meeting also reviewed developments involving AirBorneo following the Sarawak government’s acquisition of MASwings operations, including potential expansion beyond the RAS network.

Lee also announced that additional flights between Miri and Bario have been approved in conjunction with the upcoming Food and Cultural Festival (Pesta Nukenen) in July to accommodate expected travel demand.

Discussions further covered the proposed Bintulu-Samalaju rail link under the wider Trans-Borneo Railway initiative, which Lee said is important for supporting long-term economic growth and industrial development.

The implementation of the Speed Limitation Device (SLD) requirement for commercial vehicles was also raised, with Lee conveying concerns from Sarawak lorry operators and calling for more suppliers and installers in the state to improve accessibility for transport operators.

The meeting also touched on the Weight Restriction Order (WRO) affecting heavy vehicles, particularly along the Pan Borneo Highway.

Loke clarified that the matter falls under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Works (KKR).

However, Lee said his ministry would continue engaging with KKR and the Public Works Department Sarawak to address issues affecting transport operators and road users in the state.

Among those present during the courtesy call were Deputy State Secretary (Economic Planning and Development) Dato Sri Dr Muhammad Abdullah Zaidel and Sarawak Transport Ministry permanent secretary Datu Wong Hee Sieng.