I arrived in Kuching on the afternoon of last Friday, initially apprehensive about flight cancellations due to Mount Ruang’s second round of eruptions.
Fortunately, Sarawak was unaffected by its ashes this time, allowing all flights to operate as usual. However, the situation in Sabah, being closer to the source, remained uncertain.
Kuching charms with its cleanliness, pleasant ambiance, and a distinct absence of heavy traffic congestion. I always feel at home here, thanks to the warmth and hospitality of the locals.
The influx of tourists into Kuching has surged significantly recently, surpassing pre-Covid figures. With the Gawai festival upcoming, this trend is expected to continue.
However, the surge in visitors is straining the capacity of this small international airport, leading to potential fare increases as well as crowded check-in counters and arrival halls.
As a transportation expert, I often wonder why Kuching has not expanded its airport despite the high travel demand.
Managed by Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad, which oversees major airports like KLIA and Penang, the Kuching International Airport (KIA) appears to be lower on their priority list.
Airlines may hesitate to add more flights if operating costs remain high or uncompetitive.
International airlines may also overlook Kuching if government policies do not favour the airport.
Immense potential
Nevertheless, Kuching has immense potential waiting to be tapped, necessitating airport expansion to accommodate its growing passenger and freight volumes.
Given the exponential growth in passenger traffic and tourist arrivals, KIA should aim to cater for up to 10 million passengers within the next decade, which would require a second runway and an expanded terminal.
Such expansion plans must, however, be supported by thorough studies and robust business strategies.
As crucial hubs for travel and tourism, airports like KIA play pivotal roles in driving economic growth and promoting tourism excellence.
As vital gateways to regional and international connectivity, airports serve as economic engines, driving trade, investment and job creation.
KIA is poised to become a major catalyst for Sarawak’s economic growth, with the potential to elevate Borneo’s prominence on the global stage.
The expansion of KIA is not merely a matter of convenience; it is an imperative for sustaining Sarawak’s economic trajectory.
By accommodating larger passenger volumes and facilitating increased air freight capacity, KIA can support burgeoning industries such as tourism, agriculture and manufacturing.
Tourists and investors
Expansion will not only enhance accessibility for tourists but also attract foreign investors seeking efficient transport infrastructure.
Moreover, KIA’s development aligns with Sarawak’s strategic vision of becoming a leader in sustainable tourism and eco-friendly practices.
With Sarawak investing in green technologies, such as renewable energy sources and eco-conscious building materials, KIA can set a new standard for environmentally responsible airport operations.
This commitment to sustainability will not only minimise the airport’s carbon footprint, but should also resonate with environmentally-conscious travellers, bolstering Sarawak’s reputation as a forward-thinking destination.
Furthermore, KIA’s expansion presents a unique opportunity to showcase Sarawak’s cultural heritage and indigenous traditions.
By integrating elements of local art, architecture and cuisine into the airport’s design and amenities, KIA can offer passengers a truly immersive experience that celebrates the richness and diversity of Sarawak’s cultural tapestry.
This cultural showcase will not only enhance the visitor experience but also serves as a point of pride for Sarawakians, fostering a sense of identity and belonging.
In conclusion, the expansion of KIA is not just a matter of infrastructure; it is a strategic investment into Sarawak’s future prosperity.
By seizing this opportunity to modernise and expand KIA, Sarawak can position itself as a premier destination for both travellers and businesses alike, possibly becoming the gateway and hub for Borneo.
The views expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of FMT.
