KUCHING, Jan 2 — Sarawak’s state-owned airline AirBorneo officially commenced operations with inaugural flights to Mukah and Tanjung Manis from Kuching International Airport (KIA), marking a significant milestone in the region’s aviation sector. The first flight to Mukah carried 54 passengers, while the Tanjung Manis route transported 15 travelers.
Transport Minister Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin highlighted that the launch follows the successful takeover of MASwings by AirBorneo on January 1, underscoring a key development in Sarawak’s connectivity efforts. “Today signifies a historic milestone for Sarawak,” he said, expressing appreciation to the team responsible for the takeover.
Expansion and Strategic Goals
Lee explained that AirBorneo will continue operating essential rural air services across Sarawak, Sabah, and Labuan under a public service obligation (PSO), with plans for regional expansion based on aircraft availability and market demand. He emphasized the importance of air connectivity for Sarawak’s dispersed populations and economic growth, noting that the airline’s dual mandate balances commercial discipline with public service responsibilities.
“For Sarawak, air connectivity is not a luxury. It is a necessity,” said Lee. “As a geographically dispersed state, aviation plays a vital role in connecting our rural and remote communities, supporting trade and tourism, enabling access to education and healthcare, and facilitating business and investment.”
The launch ceremony also featured the unveiling of AirBorneo’s crew uniforms, with notable attendees including State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki and other officials. Abu Bakar expressed optimism about the airline’s future growth and collaboration with other carriers to enhance service quality, reaffirming the government’s commitment to developing Sarawak’s transportation infrastructure.
Moving forward, he said the airline would adopt a collaborative model and work closely with other airlines to provide reliable services. “We cannot do things on our own. We have to work together with other airlines to provide good service to the people of Sarawak,” he said.
The launch was also marked by the unveiling of airline crew uniforms, symbolizing the airline's new chapter in regional connectivity and development.
