GEORGE TOWN: THE three airports in the northern region will be upgraded in phases to cater to an increase in business and tourism activities.
Transport Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai said his ministry would look into ways to improve the amenities at the Penang, Kedah and Perak airports.
“The improvements are needed and are in line with the ministry’s move to give the northern airports a collective facelift.
“We have yet to get any details as the improved features are being studied,” Liow said when the New Sunday Times asked him about
the airport upgrade works yesterday at the Penang MCA convention here.
Liow, who is also MCA president, said at a press conference earlier that the ministry had yet to decide if the proposed airport in Kulim would go ahead, as a feasibility study was ongoing.
Liow also said the electrified double-track railway connecting Hat Yai, Thailand, to Padang Besar was slated to materialise by 2020.
“The plan (for the new link) is in the pipeline and the Thai government is keen on having the railway extended to Hat Yai.
“The move will spur the economy of the two countries as better connectivity will improve the transport of goods across the border.”
Liow said the ministry could not map out a facelift plan for the Swettenham Pier facilities, which, although under the purview of
the Transport Ministry, was halted due to a protracted stalemate
with the DAP-led Penang government.