New Airport For Perak Not Empty Talk - Exco Member
Datuk Mohammad Zahir Abdul Khalid (Bernama file pix)
IPOH, Nov 9 (Bernama) -- The plan to build a new airport in Perak is no empty talk as continuous efforts are being made to ensure its realisation, says state executive councillor Datuk Mohammad Zahir Abdul Khalid.
Holding the Industry, Investment and Corridor Development portfolio, he said establishing a new airport required thorough planning in all aspects together with the relevant parties and agencies.
"...like the plan to build a low-cost carrier terminal (LCCT) in Beriah Valley, Kerian which we had tabled to the Economic Council some years ago and which received the support of all parties."
"However, the plan was kept on hold as the federal government did not want to jeopardise the interests of Penang (International Airport), but we have not given up hope."
He said this, here, today in response to former Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Mohamad Nizar Jamaluddin's claim that the state government could have been lax in persuading the federal government to build an international airport in Perak after taking over the state's administration from the opposition.
Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir had previously said that a new airport would be built not far from Ipoh and not near a busy airport like Penang International Airport.
The choice of location for the new airport will also take into consideration factors like the area's economic growth and topography.
Mohammad Zahir was, however, confident that a new airport for Perak which could further spur the growth of its tourism and industrial sectors, could be built under the 12th Malaysia Plan.
-- BERNAMA
