Calls grow for new Tioman Airport despite environmental concerns
A NEW airport should be built on Pulau Tioman to provide more efficient, year-round access for visitors to the island resort, say travellers and local stakeholders.
Spanish tourist Carol, 39, told Utusan Malaysia that Tioman — known for its ecotourism appeal — faces persistent transport issues, especially during the monsoon season.
'With a commercial airport, tourists can enjoy better travel convenience without relying entirely on ferries, which are subject to weather conditions. I once had to stop halfway during a ferry ride from Mersing Jetty due to bad weather.
'If there were an airport on Tioman, travel time would be cut by more than 60%, and our visits would be much more comfortable,' she said.
Recently, Malaysian Ecological Association president Prof Dr Ahmad Ismail also called for a commercial airport to be constructed in Rompin.
He said such infrastructure could catalyse rapid development along the east coast, benefitting surrounding areas including Tioman, Mersing and Muadzam Shah.
Mingguan Malaysia previously reported that Tioman residents have long struggled without a commercial airport, relying solely on ferry and speedboat services.
Local tourist Shazwi Isa, 40, echoed similar frustrations, saying a proper airport would resolve long-standing transport issues.
'With flights, time can be saved — especially for working people like me who don't have long holidays. I also believe tourists from all over the world would be excited to visit Tioman if it had its own airport.'
A chalet operator known only as Zura added that an airport would not only boost tourist arrivals but also spur the local economy.
In November 2019, the Pahang and federal governments agreed to proceed with a new airport project on Tioman, with Kampung Paya identified by the Public Works Department (JKR) as the most suitable site due to its minimal environmental impact.
The plan included a 2.5km runway capable of accommodating Boeing 737 or Airbus A320 aircraft with up to 200 passengers.
However, in August 2023, the government scrapped the proposal after an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) warned of potentially severe consequences.
Then-Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad said the EIA found that the proposed project could significantly harm the environment, especially sensitive areas such as Tioman's marine ecosystem.
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