Tawau Airport Upgrade To Be Closely Monitored For Timely Completion – Loke

TAWAU, Sept 26 (Bernama) -- The Ministry of Transport will closely monitor the RM120.9 million Tawau Airport upgrading project to ensure it is completed within the stipulated 36-month period.

Minister Anthony Loke said the project, expected to be completed in 2028, will bring significant benefits to the people, particularly in the tourism and trade sectors, through modern and comfortable facilities.

“It is important for the contractor to complete the project on time. I will monitor this project, and every week I will request progress reports during post-Cabinet meetings,” he said when officiating at the groundbreaking ceremony for the project here today.

Loke said the ministry will also ensure that the project runs smoothly without disrupting airport operations, with contractors required to plan construction in phases, in line with the schedule and compatibility with ongoing operations.

According to him, the project, undertaken by a Sabah construction company, involves increasing passenger terminal capacity from 1.5 million to 2.5 million passengers annually.

Loke said the project also involves adding aerobridges, improving the aircraft apron, upgrading the air-conditioning system and check-in counters, as well as enhancing public facilities such as toilets.

“An important element of this upgrade is the provision of separate and secure immigration and e-immigration check-in areas for domestic and international flights, in compliance with international standards.

“At present, immigration checks for domestic and international flights are conducted in the same area, which causes confusion and raises concerns that some passengers may slip through immigration screening,” he said.

Loke said the airport upgrading will also strengthen Tawau’s role as a strategic gateway to East Kalimantan, Indonesia, in line with the Malaysia MADANI agenda of providing inclusive and sustainable infrastructure.

Last year, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, when tabling Budget 2025, announced that the government had agreed to expand Tawau Airport and Miri Airport in Sarawak at a cost of RM235 million.

-- BERNAMA