More than three years after its announcement by then-Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob, the long-awaited construction of the 48-hectare Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) Bare Base in Bintulu is finally set to commence. This project marks a significant milestone in Malaysia’s defense strategy, especially in safeguarding its interests in East Malaysia and the contested South China Sea.
A ceremony hosted recently by the Ministry of Works at Menara Kerja Raya formalized the next steps for the project, including the appointment of a Project Director and the handover of the Letter of Acceptance (SST). Officiated by the Minister of Works, YB Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi, and the Director-General of Public Works, Datuk Wira Ir. Roslan bin Ismail, the event highlighted the strategic and operational importance of the upcoming airbase.
The new RMAF Bare Base will be built near Bintulu Airport in Sarawak, covering 48 hectares. The project, approved under the 12th Malaysia Plan Rolling Plan 2 (RMK12 RP2), aims to construct a minimalist but fully functional airbase tailored to operational efficiency. The construction is scheduled to begin in November 2024 and is projected for completion by May 2028.
A “Bare Base” is a type of airbase characterized by limited infrastructure, providing essential facilities like runways, taxiways, and aircraft parking areas. The concept prioritizes flexibility and scalability, allowing operations to be ramped up as needed during times of conflict or heightened activity. This design aligns with the Periodic Operating Base (POB) model, enabling efficient use of existing military personnel and assets.
Despite its minimalistic structure, the Bintulu base will also serve as a hub for Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) operations. These UAS capabilities are critical for Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions, particularly over the resource-rich and strategically vital South China Sea.
The establishment of the RMAF Bare Base is a direct response to escalating tensions in the South China Sea. The region has witnessed frequent incursions by Chinese coast guard vessels into Malaysia’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), particularly around Beting Patinggi Ali (South Luconia Shoals). These waters, rich in oil and gas resources, are critical to Malaysia’s economic and security interests.
The base’s proximity to this disputed region provides Malaysia with a stronger platform for air defense and surveillance. Enhanced ISR capabilities from Bintulu will bolster Malaysia’s ability to monitor and respond to activities in the EEZ, reinforcing its sovereignty and deterring potential threats.
The RMAF Bare Base will complement the Royal Malaysian Navy’s (RMN) Fourth Maritime Region Command (MAWILLA 4), planned for construction in Samalaju. Situated near the Kasawari Gas Field and the South China Sea EEZ, MAWILLA 4 is intended to enhance Malaysia’s maritime defense capabilities.
The Bintulu airbase will play a critical role in supporting MAWILLA 4, particularly in logistics operations. Together, these installations will strengthen Malaysia’s integrated defense posture in East Malaysia and the South China Sea, ensuring the protection of its territorial and economic interests.
While the project has made significant progress, challenges remain. For instance, the RMN’s MAWILLA 4 project is contingent on finalizing the land premium payment to the Sarawak government. Similar financial and administrative complexities could arise for the RMAF Bare Base, given the scale and strategic importance of the initiative.
The inclusion of UAS operations at the Bintulu Bare Base underscores Malaysia’s commitment to modernizing its defense technology. As ISR missions grow in significance, the integration of advanced drones and surveillance systems will enhance Malaysia’s operational readiness.
The airbase also presents opportunities for regional defense collaboration. Malaysia could leverage the facility to conduct joint exercises with allied nations, reinforcing collective security efforts in the Indo-Pacific region.
The decision to build the RMAF Bare Base in Bintulu is not merely an infrastructure upgrade but a strategic move to address emerging security challenges. Its location, near key geopolitical flashpoints like the South China Sea, ensures that Malaysia is better equipped to safeguard its sovereignty and resources.
As the project moves forward, it symbolizes Malaysia’s broader ambitions to modernize its military and enhance its presence in East Malaysia. The RMAF Bare Base, together with MAWILLA 4, will stand as pillars of Malaysia’s defense strategy, underscoring the nation’s commitment to maintaining peace, stability, and sovereignty in a dynamic regional landscape.
RMAF Bare Base:
- Location: Near Bintulu Airport, Sarawak
- Size: 48 hectares
- Timeline: November 2024 to May 2028
- Role: Minimalist airbase with ISR and UAS capabilities
- Strategic Importance: Proximity to the South China Sea and MAWILLA 4
