Major upgrades valued at RM57.9 million are underway at Kuching International Airport (KIA).
The upgrades aim to significantly improve its infrastructure and services by 2026.
A report by Sarawak Tribune said that the projects are focused on enhancing cargo handling, passenger amenities, and overall service standards.
One of the key initiatives is the expansion of the MASKargo warehouse, a RM2.5 million project fully funded by the company.
This expansion will increase the warehouse size to 45,000 square feet and is expected to be completed by April 2026. This move is a direct response to feedback from local logistics associations to alleviate congestion.
Another major component is a RM50.8 million facility upgrade to be completed by December 2025.
This project includes extensive renovations such as new sliding doors, floor retiling, and upgrades to toilets, prayer rooms, and air-handling units.
To address ground logistics, a RM4.6 million cargo parking area is being constructed, which will provide designated spaces for various vehicles. This is targeted for completion in the first quarter of 2026.
The airport will also see new amenities to improve the passenger experience, including family-friendly such as a new nursing room and children’s play zones, retiling works at the International Departure Level 3 and kerbside congestion management upgrades.
In addition, the upgrade will also create a new designated drop-off area will be created for e-hailing services and a new visual icon wall to promote Kuching’s identity as a destination. This icon will also serve as a photo landmark, made perfect for those intending to show they have either reached Kuching, or are soon going to depart Kuching.
Talk of upgrading Kuching International Airport has been gaining momentum recently with many stating it requires major renovations to stay up-to-date with current tourist influx. The proposed upgrades include the improvement of airpot facilities, the change of the airport to airport 4.0, and the proposals to purchase nearby land for the airport expansion.
In 2024, the Sarawak government confirmed it is planning to build a new international airport in Tanjung Embang, while international flights to Pontianak in September is expected to further stretch the already over capacity airport.
News source: Sarawak Tribune
