TOURISM BOOSTER
BERJAYA Group plans to build a RM1.2 billion airport on Pulau Tioman. The proposed project will be self-funded so as not to burden the government, says group executive chairman Tan Sri Vincent Tan.
BERJAYA Group plans to build an airport on Pulau Tioman, Pahang, which is estimated to cost up to RM1.2 billion. Group executive chairman Tan Sri Vincent Tan announced yesterday it would submit the proposal to the government.
He said construction of the airport would be financed by the group’s internal funds as well as borrowings.
“We will not burden the government. I think those who want to embark on infrastructure projects need to find their own financing means and not rely on the government,” he said after a press conference on Cardiff City Football Club, here.
The Cardiff City club owner said during difficult times, developers should practise self-financing to indirectly help the government.
“We understand the government’s present situation, so we are ready to find partners and privatise the project so that the government does not have to pay for it,” he said.
Tan added that the proposed airport would be managed by the government if it was approved.
A new airport will most likely boost tourist arrivals to Tioman, which was once voted as one of the world’s 10 most beautiful islands.
In 2003, the government planned to build a RM120 million airport in Kampung Paya on the island, featuring a 2,000m-long and 45m-wide runway to accommodate a Boeing 737 aircraft.
However, then transport minister Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat cancelled the project in 2009, citing environmental concerns.
Ever since Berjaya Air ceased its services to the airport in Kampung Tekek several years ago, only chartered 12-seater single-engine flights are now available.