KUCHING: The Miri Airport upgrade project, with a funding ceiling of RM445 million, is expected to begin in the second quarter of 2027 and be completed by 2030.

Sarawak Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin said the project tender process was underway following the completion of the Value Engineering (VE) exercise in August 2026.

He said the project was being undertaken through continued cooperation between his ministry and the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Transport Malaysia and the Malaysian Public Works Department (JKR).

“The upgrade will increase the airport’s annual passenger handling capacity from two million to four million, while improving its facilities and operational capabilities,” he said.

He was delivering his ministry’s winding-up speech at the 19th Sarawak Legislative Assembly Sitting here on Monday.

Dato Sri Lee added that the Malaysian Public Works Department, as the implementing agency, would incorporate Sarawak’s unique cultural identity and ethnic heritage into the airport’s design, while ensuring compliance with modern standards and airport operational requirements.

He said the upgraded airport would strengthen Miri’s role as the northern gateway to Sarawak, while improving air connectivity and supporting passenger growth and regional economic development. -UKASnews

Translator: Uilson Ng