MIRI: The allocation of RM209 million to subsidise rural air services will ensure isolated settlements in Sarawak will continue to be connected with major towns.
State Transport Minister Datuk Sri Lee Kim Shin said with the rural connectivity subsidy, MASWings will be able to continue providing air services for those residing in these areas, adding that it was currently already using this subsidy.
“We know some places in Sarawak especially the highland areas in Miri division are totally without road connectivity to the nearby towns,” Lee said before attending the Miri Amateur Swimming Association (Masa) event here Saturday.
Therefore, our people are depending much on rural air connectivity which is the fastest way to connect to towns, he added.
On another note, he hoped the state will get a fair share of the RM150 million allocation announced in Budget 2023 for the State Bus Service Transformation (SBST) programme.
“Ideally Kuching should be getting RM50 million,” he said.
Through SBST programme , the Ministry will upgrade the bus service in Kuching in line with its initiatives to promote public transport,” he added.
“My Ministry will communicate further with the federal Ministry of Transport on the details,” he said.
A total 52 Masa swimmers received their certificate of achievement for their performances from Lee at the event.
He also announced a grant of RM10,000 for Masa.
