Blackrock's portfolio will soon include 17 STOL airstrips located in and around the South China Sea

 by Ganesh Sahathevan 

US investment company Blackrock's portfolio of assets is likely to soon include 17 Short Take Off And Landing (STOL) airstrips and airports. The deal is likely to go ahead despite some local opposition, given Blackrock's investment in arms manufacturers that BDS proponents say are supplying Israel. 

The deal which  involves Blackrock acquiring an indirecrt  stake in Malaysian Airports Holdings Bhd via its soon to be wholly-owned subsidiary GIPS,  will nevertheless provide management control. In the words of GIPS CEO Bayo Ugenlesi:

 “We are delighted to partner with Khazanah, EPF and ADIA, with whom we have strong and productive strategic relationships, as part of this offer for MAHB. Given GIP’s substantial expertise in owning and operating airports, together with our partners, we can focus on improving customer service, elevating operational excellence, growing passenger volumes and enhancing employee engagement. We look forward to working with our partners to build a bright future for Malaysia, MAHB and all stakeholders.”

MAHB's airports include 17 Short Take Off And Landing (STOL) airstrips located in and around the South China Sea. 

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