MELAKA, Oct 23 (Bernama) -- Melaka is set to become a regional hub for aviation and technical education with the development of the Aviation Excellence Centre at the Melaka International Airport (LTAM) in Batu Berendam, a project carried out by the state government in collaboration with Weststar Aviation Services Sdn Bhd.
Chief Minister Datuk Ab Rauf Yusoh said the strategic project is a result of the partnership between the state government, under Melaka Corporation (MCORP), and Weststar Aviation Services Sdn Bhd, formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed today.
“Weststar Aviation presented a development plan for the 17.1-acre site at LTAM for Phase 1 of the project, which is scheduled to commence in 2026. The land acquisition process is expected to be completed within two weeks,” he told a press conference after chairing a project coordination meeting at Seri Bendahara, Ayer Keroh here today.
Phase 1 will focus on three key components: a Helicopter Flight Training Centre, a Helicopter Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) Hub, and a Helicopter Logistics Hub.
The MoU was signed by MCORP’s board member Datuk Khaidirah Abu Zahar and Weststar Aviation executive director Syed Azni Syed Azman.
Rauf highlighted that the meeting marked an important phase in the project’s implementation, adding that the development is expected to be completed within five years, positioning Melaka as a key hub for helicopter training and operations in Southeast Asia.
“This project is not only about physical development but also a long-term investment in knowledge and skills for the future of Melaka's youth.
“It reflects investor confidence in Melaka’s potential as a strategic aviation hub, in line with the Melakaku Maju Jaya 2035 agenda and the Malaysia MADANI aspirations,” he said.
Rauf also added that more than 40 local and international companies have expressed interest in participating, underscoring confidence in Melaka’s economic stability and potential.
Weststar Aviation chairman Tan Sri Syed Azman Syed Ibrahim said the project is expected to bring investments exceeding RM300 million to Melaka, opening up new economic opportunities in the aviation sector.
“Weststar is honoured to collaborate with the Melaka state government in developing this centre, which will strengthen the education system and provide greater economic opportunities for the people of Melaka,” he said.
He also shared that over 10 development components are planned for the site, including the MRO Hub, Logistic Hub, Flight Simulator Training Centre, NAICO Centre of Excellence, and an Aviation Museum. These facilities will elevate Melaka to a world-class aviation reference hub.
“This project will not only enhance the country’s aviation industry but will also serve as a global platform to develop skilled local talent capable of competing internationally,” Syed Azman added.
-- BERNAMA
