KUALA LUMPUR: Berjaya Corp Bhd will work with the government and the Pahang-state government in realising the conglomerate's proposal to build new airport in Tioman Island.
Founder and executive chairman Tan Sri Vincent Tan said the company is currently sorting out the administrative approval.
He has raise optimism to build a new airport to improve connectivity and further strengthen the country's tourism in Tioman Island.
"When it is done, we look forward to building the airport, which should be good for tourism in Malaysia and Tioman Island," he told reporters on the sideline of Razer Pay launching event here today.
It was reported that the construction of the airport would cost RM1.2 billion and it would be financed from the group’s internal fund and borrowings.
Tan added Tioman is a beautiful island but the connectivity to the island is not as 'friendly' as compared to getting to Langkawi.
"Many people would like to visit Tioman Island but getting there is difficult. They have to drive many hours to Mersing, Johor and take ferry to the Island, which will take another two-three hours," he said, adding that the journey is inconvenient as opposed to direct flight to Langkawi.
"We are trying to do something so that people can fly direct to Tioman," he assured.
Based on earlier report, Berjaya Hotels & Resorts was planning to launch direct flights from the Subang International Airport to Redang Island, Terengganu.
Tan said the company will relaunch the flight service next month, which will be operated Berjaya Air.
The air service will use two pre-owned ATR 42-500 aircraft with the reconfigured new interior, accommodating up to 36 passengers.
"We will start with small plane because the airport can only take small propeller plane," he said.