KUCHING: NACO Netherlands Airport Consultants has been appointed as the lead consultant for the feasibility study of the New Kuching International Airport (NKIA) in partnership with Jurutera Jasa (Sarawak) Sdn. Bhd. as the local partner.

This appointment was officially announced by Sarawak Minister for Transport, Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin at his office recently.

According to a statement by the Sarawak Ministry for Transport (MOTS), this strategic collaboration brings together world-class international expertise and vital local knowledge to ensure a comprehensive and high-quality study.

“The consultant was appointed following a procurement process conducted in full compliance with established regulations and governance standards.

“The selection was based on a thorough evaluation of technical qualifications, financial proposals, and relevant experience to ensure the consultant’s ability to fulfill Sarawak’s strategic aviation development objectives.

“The study is scheduled to be completed within nine months,” it said on Monday.

NACO Netherlands Airport Consultants, with more than 75 years of global experience in aviation consultancy, has contributed to over 700 airport projects worldwide.

Renowned for excellence in airport planning, engineering, and operations, NACO is a world-leading firm in the development of aviation infrastructure and aerotropolis.

Headquartered in The Hague, the firm has played an instrumental role in the development and expansion of globally acclaimed airports such as Hamad International Airport in Doha, Changi Airport in Singapore, Incheon International Airport in South Korea, Frankfurt Airport in Germany, and Amsterdam Schiphol Airport in the Netherlands.

Meanwhile, Jurutera Jasa (Sarawak) Sdn Bhd has extensive experience in delivering numerous consultancy projects across Sarawak, bringing with it a deep understanding of Sarawak’s infrastructure landscape, operational environment, and technical requirements.

MOTS stated that this strategic partnership enables the delivery of a feasibility study that combines international best practices with grounded local insight, supporting Sarawak’s vision to develop a modern international airport and an integrated aerotropolis that will catalyse regional growth and connectivity.

“The consultant will conduct a comprehensive feasibility study, which includes the assessment and verification of potential airport sites based on technical, operational, environmental, and strategic criteria, followed by a detailed analysis of the preferred site to determine long-term viability and sustainability.

“The study’s scope covers site selection and airspace review, environmental and social impact assessments, demand forecasting and market analysis, economic and financial feasibility, transport connectivity and land use planning, preliminary concept planning with an emphasis on climate resilience, stakeholder engagement, and regulatory compliance,” the statement said.

Dato Sri Lee expressed confidence in the partnership between NACO and Jurutera Jasa, emphasising that their combined expertise will deliver a robust, high-impact feasibility study aligned with Sarawak’s vision of developing a modern, future-ready, and sustainable international airport capable of supporting economic growth and enhancing regional air connectivity.

“This project marks a pivotal milestone in Sarawak’s long-term aviation strategy, enabling aerotropolis development and creating new economic opportunities,” he said.

He stressed that the feasibility study will provide the essential foundation for subsequent phases, including aerotropolis master planning, detailed design, and the construction of the new airport.

Among those present at the meeting were MOTS Deputy Ministers, Datuk Dr. Jerip Susil and Dato Henry Harry Jinep, Deputy Sarawak Secretary (Economic Planning and Development), Dato Sri Dr. Muhammad Abdullah Zaidel, and MOTS Permanent Secretary, Datu Wong Hee Sieng.

The meeting was also attended by senior officers from the ministry, as well as representatives from NACO and Jurutera Jasa (Sarawak) Sdn. Bhd. -UKASnews