KUALA LUMPUR, November 14 — The Malaysian Cabinet has approved a RM442.3 million project to upgrade Kota Kinabalu International Airport (LTAKK), led by Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB). Announced by Transport Minister Anthony Loke, the project is set to begin pre-construction this year and aims for completion by 2027. This initiative will increase the airport’s capacity from nine million to 12 million passengers annually, including the addition of multi-story areas, seven extra aircraft parking bays, and infrastructure enhancements around the airport.
The upgrade, funded solely through MAHB’s private financing initiative without government guarantees, incorporates green technology and advanced Airport Technology 4.0 for improved operational efficiency. Loke highlighted that LTAKK, the second-busiest airport in Malaysia after KLIA, exceeded its initial capacity by handling 9.4 million passengers in 2019. Following a dip during the COVID-19 pandemic, passenger numbers have rebounded, reaching 6.6 million as of October 2024, marking a 13.4% increase compared to the previous year.
Loke emphasized that the LTAKK upgrade reflects a commitment to ensuring Sabah’s infrastructure is prepared to meet future demands. “This investment will not only bring returns to MAHB but will also create opportunities and prosperity for Sabah and the nation,” he stated. Passenger projections suggest a rise to 12.4 million by 2034, underscoring the importance of this upgrade for regional growth and connectivity.
