The Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) is set to close the Sungai Besi air base from Nov 31 and it will only be operational for helicopters.

RMAF chief Rodzali Daud said aircraft operations would be relocated to other RMAF airports and air bases.

This is to enable 1Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB) to start preparing the groundwork for the 1Malaysia people's housing project, he told reporters after presenting a RM2,500 cheque to runner Suwaibah Muhammad Nasir, at the RMAF Museum in Kuala Lumpur today.

Suwaibah will take part in a gruelling run across the Sahara desert in November to raise funds for a young acid attack victim.

Government-owned strategic development company, 1Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB), the master developer for Bandar Malaysia, signed the sale and purchase agreement with the federal land commissioner for the transfer of 196.6ha of Sungai Besi airport land to 1MDB in June.

On the RMAF museum and mosque, Rodzali said the RMAF wished to keep the assets even after the Sungai Besi air base ceased operations.

- Bernama