Proposed Kuching international airport could contribute RM1.8b annually to Sarawak GDP by 2050, says state minister

Winding up the debate for his ministry at the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting today, Sarawak Minister for Transport Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin said the proposed New Kuching International Airport at Tanjung Embang could contribute RM1.8 billion annually to Sarawak’s GDP by 2050, according to a feasibility study. — Bernama pic

First Published: Monday, 19 Oct 2026 6:47 PM MYT

Last Modified: Monday, 19 Oct 2026 6:51 PM MYT

KUCHING, Oct 19 — The proposed New Kuching International Airport (NKIA) at Tanjung Embang could contribute approximately RM1.8 billion annually to Sarawak’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 2050 under a high-growth scenario.

Sarawak Minister for Transport Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin said the projection was among the findings of a feasibility study conducted by Netherlands Airport Consultants (NACO).

“The study also projected that NKIA could support approximately 37,919 full-time equivalent jobs across the wider economy. During construction, Phase One could support around 9,393 jobs annually over the projected six-year construction period.

“NKIA has the potential to create wider economic opportunities in tourism, aviation services and supporting industries, including air cargo, aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), aircraft parts manufacturing, as well as aerotropolis development,” he said.

Lee said this when winding up the debate for his ministry at the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting here, today.

He said the completed study has concluded that Tanjung Embang is technically and operationally feasible for the proposed airport development.

“The study also projects that increased passenger traffic could generate RM3.99 billion in tourism receipts by 2050. These benefits could attract new investments, strengthen local businesses, create employment opportunities and stimulate economic growth across Sarawak,” he added. — Bernama