I heard from somebody before the below news was published. I heard that certain political party went to see the ruler. I heard that an offer was made to build an International Airport. I also heard that since the ruler is happy with this offer, the ruler’s decision caused the fall of this state ?
Sounds familiar? Well that’s what I heard. Is it rumours or is it the truth ? Please tell me. I want to know the truth. I heard this from a friend.
Sunday February 15, 2009
Plans underway for new international airport in Ipoh
IPOH: Plans are in motion to build a new international airport here to allow large aircraft, low cost carriers and cargo transport to land.
Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Seri Ong Ka Chuan said a 1,200ha plot had been identified to build the airport, but declined to reveal the location.
“I will propose the idea to the Prime Minister very soon but will first discuss it with the Mentri Besar next week.
“I need his blessing and consent for the land,” Ong told reporters on Friday night after attending the Perak Senior Citizens Associations Chinese New Year dinner celebration.
He said his idea was for an airport that could accommodate all classes of aircraft and eventually cargo transport, adding that certain quarters he had spoken to had expressed keen interest.
Asked about previous plans to expand the runway of the under-used Sultan Azlan Shah airport here, Ong said it was not viable because the current airport was surrounded by hills and situated in the middle of the city.
“Even if you extend the runway, there’s no point. It can only qualify as a domestic airport. We have to find a new airport, that has always been on my mind,” he said.
Asked about the cost of the proposed new airport and whether its construction would be fully funded at the federal level, he said: “That we still have to discuss. I don’t know how much it would cost but it will definitely be good for Perak. It will bring in a lot of tourism, industrial activities and development.”
On another matter, Ong said his ministry was working to extend infrastructure aid to another 150 fishing villages and planned settlements next week.
He said the Government allocated RM50mil every year to the new villages, and the additions would require another RM10mil to RM20mil, with Cabinet approval.