The regeneration of the Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport (SAAS) in Subang and the construction of a cargo port in Carey Island, Klang, will be among the Federal government’s key transportation development projects under the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP) mid-term review.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim told the Dewan Rakyat the expansion of Subang Airport is one of ten initiatives to improve the public transportation network in the country, by providing better access and connectivity.
“More people will enjoy a public transportation service that is more efficient, reliable, affordable and safe,” he said when tabling 12MP’s Mid-Term Review in Parliament today.
Other than the redevelopment of Subang Airport, other key projects include the expansion of the Penang International Airport, the development of Penang’s Light Rail Transit, and constructions of Phase 1B of the Pan Borneo Highway and the Sarawak – Sabah Link Road II.
Focus will also be given to expand the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) and city bus services in the Klang Valley and Johor Bahru, upgrading the Senai – Desaru Expressway, widening the North-South Expressway, upgrading parts of East – West Highway, and improving the road from Tanah Rata to Kea Farm in Cameron Highlands.
As for the new port in Pulau Carey, Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, said its development will strengthen Port Klang’s position as a key regional shipping hub.
In addition, the government is committed to improving maintenance works related to the transportation sector, in order to extend the lifespan of public roads, rail assets, and air navigation equipment.
Previously, it was reported the Federal government approved an RM290 million allocation for the redevelopment of SAAS.
Airport operator Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd had said the initial expenditure will be directed towards revamping public infrastructure, predominantly to improve public roads to alleviate both current and future congestion within the airport’s vicinity.
Similarly, Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari said the regeneration of SAAS will help pave the way for the state government to establish the new Greater Klang Valley administration, connecting the cities of Petaling Jaya, Subang Jaya, Shah Alam, and Klang.
Meanwhile, plans to construct the Pulau Carey port was first mooted earlier this year, and is estimated to cost RM28 billion.
Amirudin had announced in June the Selangor State Development Corporation (PKNS) has been appointed as the lead state agency to oversee the construction of the third port in Klang.
Menteri Besar Selangor (Incorporated), meanwhile, has been tasked with implementing additional projects there, including the development of manufacturing, housing, and industrial areas.
