Kuala lumpur: The Federal Government has announced a substantial allocation of RM30 million for the enhancement of Short Take-Off and Landing (STOL) airports in Long Banga and Ba'kelalan. This initiative aims to improve accessibility and facilities in these rural areas.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Deputy Transport Minister Datuk Hasbi Habibollah revealed that RM15 million has been designated for upgrading each of the two STOLports. The funding is intended to upgrade facilities and align them with current needs, ensuring that rural areas are not left behind in terms of infrastructure development.

The Deputy Minister emphasized plans to extend the existing runways at these airports. This expansion will enable the STOLports to accommodate more passengers, addressing the current limitations of the Twin Otter aircraft, which operate on these routes and currently carry a limited number of passengers. This announcement was made during the National MADANI Taxi Renewal Programme for Sarawak.