Kulim airport development study not finished, says Anthony Loke


Transport Minister Anthony Loke says a series of discussions have been held with the Kedah government to flesh out the details of the Kulim International Airport development proposal. – The Malaysian Insight file pic, March 20, 2023.

THE national airport strategic plan (NASP) study on the proposed development of Kulim International Airport (KXP) is yet to be finalised, Transport Minister Anthony Loke told parliament today.

He said the Transport Ministry (MOT) has also not received any official application to build an aerodrome as part of the Kedah Aerotropolis project.

Therefore, he said, there was no question of the government rejecting the proposed development of the project.

“The approval by the national physical planning council (NPPC) prior to this was given only in principle.

“There needs to be a follow-up application to me for the aerodrome,” he said after question from Azman Nasrudin (Padang Serai-PN) on the status of the NASP study.

Responding to Azman’s original question about the MOT’s role in ensuring the project continues, Loke said a series of discussions had been held with the Kedah government to flesh out the details of the KXP development proposal.

He said the ministry had informed the developers and the Kedah government that the development is subject to the NASP study.

Loke added that the Kedah government submitted a letter, dated January 3, 2021, asking the ministry to fast-track the development of the KXP and Kedah Aerotropolis project, by not waiting for the completion of the NASP study or through using the findings of previous preliminary study data in the interim.

Loke said applications for aerodrome development projects, including airports, must be made in accordance with the Civil Aviation Act 1969 and related regulations.

He said the ministry was always open to state governments or private investors to propose developments that bring about economic benefits, competitiveness and sustainability. – Bernama, March 20, 2023.


Sign up or sign in here to comment.


Comments