KOTA KINABALU: Relocating the Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA), the second busiest entry point into Malaysia, to Kimanis is vital to address its future congestion problems.
Datuk Dr Yusof Yacob (GRS-Sindumin) stated that the feasibility study report on the project has been submitted to the Sabah government and is awaiting approval to commence construction.
“Although Transport Minister Anthony Loke announced the Federal Government’s decision to upgrade KKIA, we believe that it is not a viable long-term solution. The existing airport has only one runway and occupies a 900-acre site, which leaves little room for expansion,” he said at the Sabah Legislative Assembly sitting on Tuesday (July 9).
He noted that Singapore’s Changi Airport, by comparison, has three runways and covers 6,100 acres.
“The relocation won’t happen overnight. It would take about five years to construct the new facilities and an additional two years for flight simulations. We need space for more runways, additional luggage carousels, cargo handling, and a flying school to meet the increasing number of flights and visitors to the state,” he said.
Dr Yusof added that the distance to the proposed airport, about 60km from KKIA in Petagas, should not be an issue, noting that many international airports are located far from their main cities.
Meanwhile, the Qhazanah Sabah Sdn Bhd chairman also urged the government to ensure timely payments to contractors for completed development projects in the state.
“The issue of delayed payments to contractors and entrepreneurs is a pressing concern that significantly impacts the economic health and development of Sabah. The government must ensure timely payments to foster a conducive environment for business growth and sustainability,” he said.
Dr Yusof explained that contractors facing delayed payments struggle to meet their financial obligations, including repaying bank loans, paying suppliers, and covering employee wages.
“The ripple effect of such delays disrupts the entire supply chain, causing financial instability and reducing productivity,” he said.
Despite these challenges, Dr Yusof expressed optimism, citing Sabah’s RM1.004bil surplus announced by Finance Minister Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun, which indicates potential for revenue generation and investment in critical infrastructure and development projects.
“Proper utilisation of these funds can bolster the state’s economic prospects,” he said.
Additionally, Dr Yusof called on the government to improve five essential infrastructures to attract investors, including road and rail networks, water supply, renewable and green energy, communication networks, and job opportunities.
