THE announcement by the Minister of Economic Affairs, Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali, on approval of RM1.6 billion allocation for the construction of the Kulim International Airport, drew mixed reactions from the public.
KXP Airport City Holdings Sdn Bhd has been set up to plan, coordinate and manage the development of the airport.
Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Mukhriz Mahathir said parties interested to develop LTAK could contact or hand in their proposals to KXP Airport City office at Wisma PKNK in Alor Setar.
The proposed Kulim International Airport entirely will be funded by a private sector.
In a recent press conference, Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow called on the Federal Government to carry out a feasibility study on the planned Kulim International Airport.
He would like the study to find out the impact of the new airport, including its effect in the long run for Penang’s economy.
Buletin Mutiara spoke to several travellers for their opinions, with some for and some against the setting up of LTAK.
Below are their views.
Shamini Chandrasegaran, 32, Penang (quality control specialist, DHL Singapore).
“Having an airport in Kulim, Kedah, is another development project for the state. I agree with that.
“Although it might benefit Kedah, I still say that it is some 40 mins drive from Kulim to Penang.
“I feel that Penang would be sidelined if a new airport comes to Kulim. Under such circumstance, it will have a huge impact on Penang’s industries since they have been the catalyst for growth in Penang.
“For Penang, I’m strongly looking forward to the expansion and development plans for its existing Penang International Airport.
“The current location of the Penang International Airport in Bayan Lepas is very strategic.
“I wish the Penang International Airport to be one of the best airports in Malaysia.”
Shere Tan, 29, an operation manager in Kuala Lumpur.
“Do we need another one?
“I’m not in favour of the development of the Kulim International Airport, but it does have the pros for the industries over there. It can attract more investments for them.
“If the proposed airport is realised, it will be convenient for Kedahans. They do not need to drive across the bridge or use the ferry to come to Penang for their flights.”
Abdul Jalil Abdul Rahman, 60, a retired government employee from Bagan Luar.
“If you want to build an airport in Kulim, it involves a wide area of land. I hope it will not affect the residents there.
“The Federal Government should conduct a feasibility study so that every important aspect could be taken into account.
“Putrajaya can come up with any development in our country, whether it is airport or anything, but it should enhance the economic growth and safeguard the people’s welfare as a whole.”
Muhammad Limran Zainal Abidin, 36, online marketing manager.
“As long as the Kulim International Airport does not affect the economic interests of Penangites, the federal project should be welcomed by all parties.
“Economic growth will certainly happen when there is federal support for the project in Kulim. I believe Kedah’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) will increase with the RM1.6 billion approval for the project.
“It can help spur the state’s economic growth, increase more investors to Malaysia and create more job opportunities.
“However, I believe that this project should not affect the overall economic interest in the northern Peninsular Malaysia, especially Penang.”
Nurul Ashikin Saad, 29, a private sector worker.
“I usually fly to Penang for various reasons. The island, especially is blessed with many interesting tourist places, like Penang Hill, George Town World Heritage Site and etc.
“You can visit numerous places in Penang. It’s no wonder that Penang tourism plays a huge role in its economy.
“But I don’t know how viable it is for Kulim International Airport to draw local and international visitors.”
Ms Ng, 32, analyst.
“To propose a new airport in Kulim industrial area is a good development. However, I think it would be better to consider upgrading the Penang International Airport first.
“A newly-upgraded Penang airport would benefit the community, after all the distance from Penang to Kulim is not that far. It is less than 50km.
Story & pix by K. Thaarshenii