BETONG: The Short Take-Off and Landing Port (STOLport) at Bebuling, Spaoh, continues to make progress towards becoming operational, with a second trial flight carried out on Saturday as part of the process to assess the facility's readiness.

The trial flight was witnessed by Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg after he officiated the Sarawakku Sayang (SKS) Betong 2026 Programme.

It forms part of a comprehensive assessment covering technical, operational and safety aspects to ensure Bebuling STOLport meets the required standards before being opened to public operations.

Previously, the first trial flight was carried out on 18 September 2026 using a Super King 300 aircraft, registration 9M-WSD, witnessed by Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas together with Sarawak Public Works Department (JKR) Director Datu Ir Cassidy Morris.

Carrying out trial flights in phases is important to assess the facility's overall readiness and ensure safety and operational efficiency are at the required level.

Bebuling STOLport is equipped with a 1,190-metre runway, taxiway, apron, terminal, control tower, helipad and Aircraft Fire and Rescue Services (AFRS) facilities.

Once operational, the facility is expected to strengthen Betong's connectivity with other areas, ease the movement of passengers and cargo, and support the growth of local economic activity.

The transport infrastructure development also complements efforts to strengthen the area's agro ecosystem through Bebuling Agropark and the Collection, Processing and Packaging Centre (CPPC) in Spaoh.

Also present were Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, Sarawak Minister of Transport Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, Sarawak Cabinet Ministers, Sarawak Deputy Ministers, Sarawak Legislative Assembly Members, and other guests. -UKASnews

Prepared by: Eisner Nala
Photos: Ibanez Jeffery & George S. Embie
Translator: Uilson Ng