SARAWAK will adopt Dubai’s acclaimed infrastructure model for its upcoming multibillion-ringgit international airport and deep seaport in Samarahan, as part of a bold strategy to drive the state’s economic transformation.
Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the state had reached an understanding with the Government of Dubai during his recent visit to the Middle East, and would draw inspiration from the United Arab Emirates’ Zayed International Airport and Khalifa Port—both widely recognised for their advanced systems and operational efficiency.
“The Zayed International Airport and Khalifa Port have among the most advanced and efficient systems in the world. Sarawak will follow their model for the state's new international airport and seaport,” he was quoted as saying by the State Public Communications Unit.
The Premier confirmed that planning has already begun for the two key infrastructure projects, to be located in Samarahan district, about 30 kilometres from the state capital Kuching.
“These new mega projects are crucial in propelling the economic transformation for Sarawak. 2025 will see Sarawak planning ahead for the period until 2030 with the international airport and deep sea port,” he said.
“We are going full scale in transforming Sarawak, with the new international airport and new deep-sea port as our top priorities. They will be crucial in propelling Sarawak in the next decade,” he added.
Abang Johari said the state government would begin detailed financial planning for the projects, which are expected to cost as much as RM100 billion. Despite the scale of these developments, he assured that existing soio-economic programmes would continue to receive attention.
“We will also try to complete all outstanding infrastructure projects in Sarawak listed under the 12th Malaysia Plan. 2025 is the last year of the 12MP,” he noted.
“We had done well in getting most of the 12MP projects done already, especially the physical projects related to roads, bridges and public amenities. The outstanding ones must be completed in 2025,” he said.
The Premier’s vision is aimed at positioning Sarawak as a major logistics and trade hub in the region, with world-class infrastructure to support long-term growth. - May 9, 2025
