A completed feasibility study for the proposed New Kuching International Airport is part of the backdrop to fresh transport discussions between Sarawak and the Netherlands—not an announcement that airport construction has begun. DayakDaily reported on Oct 22 that Netherlands Airport Consultants, or NACO, completed the study in the first quarter of 2026. The report places that earlier work alongside talks on aviation, airport development and green hydrogen during a Dutch ambassadorial visit to the Sarawak Ministry for Transport. Sarawak is interested in experience from Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport and its surrounding aerotropolis, where airport activity connects with wider business development. The Netherlands also outlined a three-year industry cooperation programme involving companies and relevant agencies, aimed at technical exchanges, business participation and investment opportunities. For Kuching, the other link is the Kuching Urban Transportation System. The discussion included its hydrogen-powered Autonomous Rapid Transit vehicles and supporting hydrogen feeder buses, alongside sustainable public transport, ports and emerging transport technology. These are cooperation discussions. A feasibility study, an industry programme and a construction award are different stages; the reported visit does not announce a new airport opening date or a newly awarded building contract. The practical outcome to follow is which of these exchanges leads to a defined project or agreement.

Muara Lassa Bridge in Mukah Division has won the Large Scale Projects category at the Road Engineering Excellence Awards 2026. The Road Engineering Association of Malaysia award was presented in Kuala Lumpur on October 13, DayakDaily reports. The category covers road engineering projects valued at more than RM100 million; that is an eligibility threshold, not a cash grant announced with the award. Four of the nine shortlisted projects were under JKR Sarawak: Muara Lassa Bridge, Marudi Bridge, Sebauh Bridge and the access road to the southern area of Kuching International Airport. For Kuching, the local connection is the airport access road's place among the finalists. Muara Lassa is the winning bridge in Mukah Division, while Kuala Lumpur was the award venue. The other three Sarawak projects were shortlisted, not reported as category winners.