The new terminal at Sultan Ismail Petra Airport (LTSIP) in Pengkalan Chepa, Kelantan, has reportedly been turned into a racing spot by mat rempit (illegal street racers), despite only being operational for less than a month.
According to Sinar Harian, a video of the incident went viral after being recorded by airport users. The issue has reportedly been ongoing since the LTSIP departure hall at the new terminal opened to the public on 19 March.
Transport Minister slams “deeply embarrassing” incidents at LTSIP
In response to the incident, Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook described the acts as “deeply embarrassing,” pointing out that the federal government had spent nearly RM450 million upgrading the airport.
“This news is not only saddening but also deeply embarrassing. The federal government upgraded the Kota Bharu Airport to boost air connectivity, support socio-economic development for the people, and attract more tourists to the state,” he said.
He added that the actions of these individuals in front of the new terminal’s departure hall not only put public safety at risk but could also be viewed as a threat to the state’s security and economy.
Anthony loke siew fook
Large-scale enforcement operations
As a result, Loke has instructed the Director of Enforcement of the Road Transport Department (JPJ) to carry out large-scale operations in the area.
“Anyone caught racing recklessly in front of the airport will have their motorcycles seized on the spot. I’ve also asked Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB) management to tighten access points to the terminal to help curb this problem,” he said.
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