KUALA LUMPUR, June 27 — The government believes that Langkawi should be retained as the venue for the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA) due to its highly strategic location and suitability for hosting the biennial event, the Dewan Negara was told.
Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan said Langkawi, which has been the venue for LIMA since 1991, has an airport and open spaces to accommodate various types of aircraft and ships, along with strategically located sea areas and adequate infrastructure.
“At the recent LIMA’23, over 100 aircraft were there (in Langkawi) for the aerobatic show and static displays, including military, commercial and private jets. So, we need a highly suitable area to accommodate these aircraft and ships.
“…because for the aerobatic show, we need to close the air space for approximately four hours and turn it into a no-flying zone, which would disrupt public flight traffic. That’s why we hold LIMA in Langkawi, as its waters are also a sheltered harbour with suitable depth.”
Mohamad said this in reply to Senator Datuk Jefridin Atan who wanted to know whether the was any proposal for LIMA to be held outside Langkawi considering the high demand from the people outside Langkawi in addition to being able to attract more visitors to attend this event and further strengthen the brand.
