KUALA LUMPUR: The Transport Ministry (MoT) does not prohibit Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) from forming joint ventures with private entities to carry out airport expansion projects.
However, MAHB had chosen to postpone the implementation of the project until it had sufficient cash flow to cover its expenses, said Transport Minister Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong.
He noted that currently, MAHB has to bear the operating costs for all 39 airports under its network nationwide, which comes up to RM140 million per month.
"When the situation returns to normal, it will not be a problem to carry out the airport expansion project, especially at the Penang International Airport.
"We still have the proposal, but if it were to be implemented at this time, it would pose a financial constraint for MAHB," he said when winding up the debate on the Supply Bill 2022 at the policy level in the Dewan Rakyat today.
On the "takeover" of the Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport (Subang Airport), Wee stressed that the government had no plans to approve the takeover or sale of any part of the Subang Airport to any private business entities.
He said the rights and operation of the Subang Airport remained as stipulated under the Lease Agreement with MAHB, where MAHB would operate, manage and maintain the airport, including occupying, using and controlling the airport until 2034 (operating agreement) and 2067 (lease agreement).
"MAHB is responsible for developing Subang Airport as an international aerospace hub as decided by the Cabinet on March 2, 2005," he said.
Meanwhile, no approval has been given on the construction of an aerodrome for the Kulim International Airport (KXP) construction project to date, as provided under the Civil Aviation (Aerodrome Operation) Regulations 2016.
Wee said the final approval on the proposed construction of the KXP will only be considered when the National Airport Strategic Plan (NASP) study is completed.
He also emphasised the need to comply with all conditions set by other government agencies as stated in technical reports such as the Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIA), Social Impact Assessment Report (SIA) and Traffic Impact Assessment Report (TIA).
"This is to ensure that the proposed airport construction is truly viable, sustainable and meets the technical requirements set by the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) and the Malaysian Aviation Commission (MAVCOM)," he said.
So far, the National Physical Planning Council had only given its approval in principle on the KXP project following its meeting on Oct 27, 2020.
"The approval in principle is subject to the application for consideration of the MoT and other government agencies," he said.
-- BERNAMA
Bernama
Tue Nov 16 2021
The Transport Ministry (MoT) does not prohibit Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) from forming joint ventures with private entities to carry out airport expansion projects. - BERNAMA photo
ISIS Malaysia's perspective of Budget 2025
An excellent rakyat-centric budget under the overarching principle of a caring and humane economy.
Budget 2025: Record increase in STR, SARA aid initiatives
The government will provide a significant boost to the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) and Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) initiatives next year.
Budget 2025: EPF contributions to be made mandatory for foreign workers – PM Anwar
The government plans to make it compulsory for all non-citizen workers to contribute to the Employees Provident Fund (EPF).
What policies to expect from Indonesia's new President Prabowo
Prabowo will be open to foreign investment, his aide has said, such as by offering investors management of airports and sea ports.
Budget 2025: Govt allocates RM470 mil to empower women's participation in PMKS
The Women's Leadership Apprenticeship Program will be intensified as an effort to produce more female corporate personalities.
Israel sends more troops into north Gaza, deepens raid
Residents of Jabalia in northern Gaza said Israeli tanks had reached the heart of the camp, using heavy air and ground fire.
Indonesia ramps up security ahead of Prabowo's inauguration
Prabowo Subianto will be sworn in as Indonesia's president on Sunday with Vice President-elect, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, also taking office.
Immediate allocation of RM150 mil for local authorities, DID to tackle flash floods
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said this allocation is intended to address the recent flash floods that hit the capital and several major towns.
Budget 2025: Sabah, Sarawak to continue receiving among highest allocations - PM
Sabah and Sarawak continues to be prioritised under Budget 2025, with allocations of RM6.7 billion and RM5.9 billion respectively.
NFOF will be operational in November 2024 with funding of RM1 bil
PM Anwar Ibrahim said NFOF will support venture capital fund managers to invest in startup companies with RM300 million set aside for 2025.
Minimum wage to increase to RM1,700 effective Feb 1, 2025
The Progressive Wage Policy would be fully enforced next year with an allocation of RM200 million, benefiting 50,000 workers.
Bursa Malaysia ends higher on Budget 2025 optimism
The benchmark index, which opened 1.85 points higher at 1,643.29, moved between 1,641.71 and 1,649.31 throughout the trading session.
Five important aspects relating to people’s lives in Budget 2025 - PM
The focus is on driving the MADANI Economy, speeding reforms, cutting red tape, raising wages, and tackling the cost of living.
Economic outlook: Govt plans to leverage, expand existing city transit system
The expansion aims to provide a more efficient and reliable public transportation network, reduce congestion, and improve accessibility.
Economic outlook: Budget 2025 to lay foundation for a digital-driven economy
The report said Budget 2025 will entail efforts to position Kuala Lumpur as a top 20 global startup hub by 2030 through the KL20 initiative.
Economic outlook: Corruption and lack of accountability hinder economic progress
Special Cabinet Committee on National governance is established to curb corruption, law reforms to modernise outdate regulations, MoF said.
National Wages Consultative Council will be strengthened
The govt will also incentivise hiring women returning from career breaks, offer job matching and improve care services facilities.
Economic outlook: Ensuring 11 years of compulsory education for all children
Budget 2025 will continue prioritising upskilling and retraining initiatives to equip workers with the latest skill sets necessary.
Consolidated public sector projected to record lower surplus of RM41.7 bil 2024
The MoF said the consolidated general government revenue is estimated to increase slightly to RM384.7 billion in 2024.
PM announces substantial Budget 2025 hastening Malaysia to become Asian economic powerhouse
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said it would create jobs and also tackle financial leakages to enhance public spending efficiency.