Melaka Eyes Revival Of Pekan Baru Flights To Boost Health Tourism

MELAKA, Nov 2 (Bernama) -- Melaka is working to resume flights to Pekan Baru, Indonesia, to boost health tourism activities in the state, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh.

He said this follows the arrival of 82,941 health tourists from Indonesia seeking treatment in Melaka last year.

“This offers a significant potential for airlines to establish direct routes from Indonesia to the Melaka International Airport (LTAM).

“Moving forward, the state government hopes to receive support and collaboration from the federal government, especially the Transport and Defence Ministries, to make LTAM the main choice for light and private aircraft,” he said at the launch of the Melaka International Air Carnival 2024 at LTAM, Batu Berendam here today.

Also present were state Tourism, Heritage, Arts and Culture Committee chairman Datuk Abdul Razak Abdul Rahman and Public Works, Infrastructure, Public Amenities and Transport Committee chairman Datuk Hameed Mytheen Kunju Basheer.

Speaking to reporters later, Ab Rauf said Melaka has the potential to become an aviation hub connecting western Indonesia and Singapore.

“It’s up to local airlines to capitalise on this opportunity, creating a transit link from Indonesia to Melaka and onward to Singapore,” he said.

Meanwhile, 38 aircraft, including eight from uniformed bodies, 11 light aircraft from aviation clubs, 13 paramotors, three gliders and three microlights, are featured at the annual air carnival, which runs from Oct 31 to Nov 3.

Over 500 participants from across Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore are participating in the ninth edition of the carnival.

-- BERNAMA