KOTA KINABALU: The Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA) will be expanded to handle up to 12 million passengers annually by 2028, as part of the Federal Government’s commitment to support Sabah’s growing aviation and economic needs.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke said in a Facebook post on Wednesday that the Ministry received a briefing from Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB) on the KKIA expansion project during his recent working visit to Kota Kinabalu.
He said the airport currently handles more than 25,000 passengers daily with 15 international destinations, and the upgrade will include an expanded terminal, apron, and airside facilities to cater to rising passenger and cargo traffic.
Loke said Sabah’s potential goes beyond tourism, with opportunities for the state to develop as one of the region’s leading air cargo hubs, opening new routes for trade and logistics.
He added that the Ministry will continue working closely with the State Government, MAHB, airlines, and other stakeholders to ensure KKIA becomes a true driver of Sabah’s economic growth and Malaysia’s global gateway.
