Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said Sultan Ismail Petra Airport (LTSIP) has strong potential to be developed into a strategic regional hub, including serving the southern Thailand market.
He said direct international links from LTSIP to major cities such as Singapore, Jakarta and Bangkok could bring major economic benefits to Kelantan through increased trade, tourism and business activity.
Speaking at the opening of the airport’s new terminal on Saturday, Anwar said better transport infrastructure would benefit local residents while supporting the country’s wider economic growth.
“The potential in Kelantan should not be overlooked if we give it proper focus and attention,” he said.
He also praised the close cooperation between the federal and Kelantan state governments in completing the RM440 million airport upgrade project, which also included runway extension works.
Anwar said the project continued despite economic challenges because of its long-term strategic importance. He added that the completion of the airport should be seen as a starting point, with further efforts needed to maximise its potential in sectors such as trade, investment, transport, tourism and agriculture.
The upgraded airport can now handle up to four million passengers annually, compared with 1.5 million previously.
The terminal has expanded from 12,000 sq m to 36,000 sq m and now features more than 20 check-in counters, multi-storey parking, dedicated taxi lanes, a fire and rescue station, larger aircraft parking areas and a cashless operating system.
Aircraft parking bays have increased to 11 from five, while parking capacity has grown to about 1,300 spaces from 350 previously.
