Kota Kinabalu: State Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Minister Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe is closely monitoring the progress of Skyrich Development Sdn Bhd’s second appeal to the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) regarding the height limit imposed on the Star City project.
He said the developer is currently seeking approval to increase the height restriction from the originally approved 48.2m above sea level to 112m. To support this request, Skyrich appointed Pans Ops Aero Konsultant Sdn. Bhd. to carry out an aerodrome safety study, as required by CAAM.
He also said that CAAM had initially granted approval for a maximum structure and crane height of 48.2 metres in a letter dated May 21, 2024.
Following this, the developer commissioned a detailed safety study which was completed in October 2024. The findings were submitted to CAAM as part of an official appeal on Nov 1, 2024.
However, CAAM responded on Nov 15, 2024 requesting further technical information. The developer’s consultant subsequently submitted the supplementary materials on March 29.
Phoong communicated this via a written statement issued on Monday during the State Legislative Assembly’s oral question session, in response to a query by Datuk Seri Yong Teck Lee on the progress of the KK One development.
“Only upon receiving formal approval from CAAM will Skyrich Development Sdn Bhd be able to submit the KK One development plans to City Hall (DBKK) for consideration.
“I am personally following up with the Ministry of Transport on the status of this application,” he said.
In April 2024, Phoong had raised concerns in the State Assembly over alleged fraud and manipulation linked to the original CAAM approval for the KK One project, which he described as “highly concerning” and a key factor in the project’s delays.
Additionally, Phoong reiterated his ongoing engagement with the Star City Buyers Association (Pekestar), assuring affected purchasers that their welfare remains a top priority.
“I will go to great lengths to uphold, defend and safeguard the interests of all purchasers, regardless of the final outcome,” he said.
