MELAKA: Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad's (MAHB) Network Development Programme (NDP) holds the potential to attract airlines to begin operations at the Melaka International Airport (LTAM).

State Works, Infrastructure, Public Amenities, and Transport Committee chairman Datuk Hameed Mytheen Kunju Basheer explained that the NDP initiative is designed to support airlines wanting to launch flights to new international destinations at any airport managed by the company.

"NDP offers various incentives, including rebates such as exemptions from landing charges, passenger growth rebates, and marketing support. This programme will run from Jan 1, 2025, to December 2027," he said.

"The initiative has the potential to encourage airlines to operate at LTAM, contributing to the further growth of the country's economy," he said at the Melaka State Legislative Assembly sitting in Seri Negeri today.

He was responding to a question from Kerk Chee Yee (PH-Ayer Keroh), who inquired about the availability of domestic and international flights at LTAM.

Hameed (BN-Ayer Limau) also emphasised that the state government consistently prioritises promoting LTAM through the annual Melaka International Air Carnival (KUAM), organised in collaboration with various agencies.

He noted that KUAM 2024 attracted 83,877 visitors, a significant increase from the 60,000 attendees in the previous year, along with a revenue of RM171,420.