MUKAH: The RM495.3 million new Mukah Aiport project is expected to be completed by Sept 2020.
This was disclosed by Deputy Chief Minister Tan Sri Datuk Amar Dr James Jemut Masing, who is also Infrastructure and Ports Development Minister, in his winding-up speech at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) on Wednesday.
Masing said as of Oct 2019, the physical progress of the project was on schedule at 60.8 percent.
According to him, the new Mukah Airport is a federal-funded project and the initial earthworks under Package 1 were completed on Dec 19, 2016 with a contract sum of RM133.3 million.
“For Package 2 (Airfield, Civil and Building Works), the project is currently under construction with a contract sum of RM302.6 million,” he said, adding that the airport has been planned for the operations of Code 3C (ATR72) with a runway length of 1.5km.
According to the minister, air connectivity is important as it facilitates trade as well as increases accessibility to domestic and international markets.
Masing said that it also acts as an engine of growth for economic prosperity and social progress.
“It improves productivity by encouraging investment, innovation and business efficiency,” he added.
Currently, Mukah has a STOLport (short take-off and landing airport), catering for only Twin Otter aircrafts with a capacity of 18 passengers.
