Premier: Bali, Shenzhen among regional routes planned for AirBorneo

KUCHING (Feb 12): Sarawak’s newly launched airline, AirBorneo, is set to expand its regional routes, with plans to connect Kuching to key destinations such as Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta, Bali, Hong Kong, and potentially Shenzhen, China.

Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg announced this vision for its airline during the Chinese New Year Dinner 2025, hosted by the Federation of Chinese Associations of Kuching, Samarahan, and Serian Divisions here tonight.

“By stages, AirBorneo will become a regional airline, connecting us with, of course, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, eventually to Jakarta, Bali, of course, Hong Kong, and maybe Shenzhen in China,” he said.

Earlier today, Sarawak officially took over MASwings and rebranded it as AirBorneo, marking a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to enhance connectivity.

Abang Johari emphasised that AirBorneo is not solely profit-driven but serves as a critical link for mobility and economic development.

“The business model, you know, because we are on an island, you need a bridge. So this airline will become a bridge. You don’t expect to make a profit,” he said.

He highlighted that AirBorneo’s success would be measured by its contribution to Sarawak’s overall economy rather than financial gains, adding that the airline will expand in phases based on market demand, with an initial fleet that includes jet aircraft.

“The success will be measured by the whole GDP growth – the macro benefit from this airline.

“As long as we can bring in tourists, they spend money, hotels are full, fish sell out, vegetables sell out, they eat, they see whatever we can offer – meaning the whole economy will benefit from this approach,” he said.

On Sarawak’s plans for a new international airport, Abang Johari noted that it would be significantly larger than the current facility.

“That is why we have to plan early, and this airport synergises with our airline.”

He explained that such projects would inject significant funds into Kuching’s economy, creating jobs and enhancing connectivity.

“One day, our area with that airline will become a gateway to Borneo and also a gateway to Asean. And that will benefit the business community,” he said.

Abang Johari also highlighted Sarawak’s broader economic achievements, including the acquisition of Bintulu Port and a 31.25 per cent majority stake in Affin Bank.

He noted that the state’s revenue for 2024 had reached RM14.2 billion, nearly double since he took office.

As Sarawak continues to drive economic expansion, sustainability, and regional connectivity, Abang Johari stressed that unity among its diverse communities remains the foundation for progress.

“Once we have that unified force, nobody can shake Sarawak. And Sarawak will move ahead,” he said.

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