GEORGE TOWN – Seeking to allay concerns that Penang International Airport will play second fiddle to the proposed Kulim International Airport (KXP), Chow Kon Yeow has reminded Kedah that it needs to fulfil several conditions before the hub can be built.
The Penang chief minister, responding to the reported approval for the project by the National Physical Planning Council chaired by Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, said an environmental impact assessment report is among the conditions for a nod to be given.
KXP, said to be for freight use only, was mooted when Datuk Seri Mukhriz Mahathir was Kedah menteri besar. It continues to be supported by the state administration led by Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor.
Penang has opposed the project as its airport in Bayan Lepas has effectively served as an aviation gateway for the northern region, for both passenger and cargo traffic.
The state has recommended the cheaper option of upgrading its airport to cater to growing traffic instead of building a new one.
“I think there is a list of conditions attached to the approval. Kedah must fulfil them, just like how we had to meet the conditions stated for the Penang South Reclamation project,” said Chow.
On the pandemic-battered tourism sector, he said the only way to properly revive it is to ensure the country is rid of Covid-19.
“How can we promote domestic tourism when the major markets (Kuala Lumpur and Selangor) are under the conditional movement control order?
“The best avenue is to work until every state is a green zone. This can help tourism.” – The Vibes, October 30, 2020
