Tawau Airport Upgrade Will Be Closely Monitored, Set For 2028 Completion - Loke

The Transport Ministry will be keeping a close eye on the RM120.9 million Tawau Airport upgrading project to make sure it is completed within the planned 36 months.

Its Minister Anthony Loke said the expansion, set to finish in 2028, will provide modern facilities that not only improve passenger comfort but also give a major boost to tourism and trade in Sabah.

“It is important for the contractor to complete the project on time. I will monitor this project, and every week I will request progress reports during post-Cabinet meetings,” he said when launching the groundbreaking ceremony on Friday.

He added that work must be carried out in phases so that airport operations continue smoothly without disruptions.

The project, led by Sabah-based Azam Jaya Berhad through its subsidiary Pembinaan Azam Jaya Sdn Bhd, will raise the airport’s passenger capacity from 1.5 million to 2.5 million a year. 

The upgrades will include new aerobridges, an expanded aircraft apron, better air-conditioning, upgraded check-in counters, and improved amenities such as toilets.

“An important element of this upgrade is the provision of separate and secure immigration and e-immigration check-in areas for domestic and international flights, in compliance with international standards

At present, immigration checks for domestic and international flights are conducted in the same area, which causes confusion and raises concerns that some passengers may slip through immigration screening,” Loke explained.

Beyond passenger comfort, he said the expansion will reinforce Tawau’s position as a key gateway to East Kalimantan, Indonesia, in line with the Malaysia MADANI vision of building inclusive and sustainable infrastructure.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had previously announced the government’s commitment to expand both Tawau Airport and Miri Airport in Sarawak under Budget 2025, with a combined cost of RM235 million.