Proposed new airport at Bukit Mabong in Kapit
Proposed new airport at Bebuling in Spaoh
The new airports at two sites, Bukit Mambong, Kapit and Bebuling, Spaoh are expected to be completed by the third quarter of 2023.
According to Deputy Chief Minister YB Tan Sri Datuk Amar Dr. James Jemut Masing, both Bukit Mabong Airport which offers cargo and passenger carriers and the Bebuling Airport for cargo carriers will take 36 months to complete.
“Kapit/Bukit Mabong has been identified as a new Rural Air Services (RAS) route under the Malaysian Aviation Commission (MAVCOM),”
“The site in Bukit Mabong has been aptly selected as it is remote, sparsely populated with a population of approximately 50,000 and with significant accessibility issues,” said YB Tan Sri Datuk Amar Dr. James in a press statement.
Meanwhile, he added that Bebuling in Spaoh is chosen based on inputs from various stakeholders, to improve air connectivity with a key agroplitan centre of Sarawak in the Bukit Sadok area.
This will in turn help in the transportation of agricultural produce for export from the area.
The cost for the construction of Bukit Mabong airport amounting to RM173.5 million will feature a 790-metre runway which can accommodate a twin otter passenger aircraft and a Cessna 208 aircraft with 3 tonnes load.
Tender will be awarded to the contractor by 15th July 2020 and cost negotiation will be carried out in August 2020. The Letter of Award (LoA) is expected to be issued by mid-September 2020.
On the other hand, the Bebuling Airport which costs RM91.4 million in construction is also expected to commence work soon.
The tender documents are expected to be distributed to the contractor on 15th July 2020 and the Letter of Award issued end of August. For Bebuling early commencement of works is expected.
“The condition of the soil in the area also makes initial works more challenging in Bebuling. However, it is a challenge we accept, while always being mindful of the rakyat’s safety,” said YB Tan Sri Datuk Amar Dr. James.
