KUANTAN, August 17 — The Transport Ministry (MoT) is ready to back the Pahang government’s plan to develop the Kuantan International Airport (KIA), provided all regulatory requirements are met, according to Transport Minister Anthony Loke. While the project has gained attention, the ministry has yet to receive an application for the crucial Aerodrome Operator Licence, a necessary step before construction can proceed.
Loke emphasized that once the licence application is submitted, the ministry will conduct a traffic study to assess the suitability of the proposed location as part of the National Airport Strategic Plan (NASP). He noted that the project is a private investment, not directly initiated by the MoT, and reiterated the importance of following the standard procedures, including obtaining approval from the National Physical Planning Council (NPPC).
The proposed airport, intended to serve as a dedicated civil aviation hub, is seen as a significant development for Pahang, potentially enhancing its role as a gateway to Malaysia’s East Coast.
