AirBorneo to Link Sarawak & Singapore, Boosting Tourism & Trade

Sarawak is establishing a new government-owned airline, AirBornéo, to enhance direct connectivity between Sarawak and Singapore. Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg announced that the airline, managed by the Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC), is in the final stages of acquiring necessary licenses from the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) and the Malaysian Aviation Commission (MAVCOM) and is expected to launch soon.

The primary objective of AirBornéo is to address current challenges faced by Sarawak’s tourism and trade sectors, specifically high airfares and limited direct flight options. By creating its own airline, Sarawak aims to boost visitor arrivals, facilitate trade, and support its economic transformation strategy to become an advanced region by 2030. This initiative is expected to benefit various sectors including tourism, medical tourism, business, and education.

AirBornéo is envisioned as a “boutique airline” focusing on regional, short-haul routes. It plans to initially operate turboprop aircraft, with a future possibility of acquiring jet aircraft such as Airbus 320s or Boeing 737s to expand its network. The airline’s operations will complement Hornbill Skyways, another state-owned entity, in strengthening Sarawak’s aviation capabilities and regional links. Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah highlighted the importance of direct connectivity for Sarawak’s tourism growth.

The Premier emphasized that AirBornéo represents a strategic move by the Sarawak government to control its air connectivity, ensuring stable and affordable access to key international hubs like Singapore. This autonomy is crucial for achieving Sarawak’s long-term development goals and strengthening its position as a regional economic player. Other officials present at the event included Sarawak Deputy Minister of Transport Datuk Dr Jerip Susil, Minister of Utility and Telecommunication Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi, and Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Sebastian Ting.

Key Points
* Hornbill Skyways’ paid-up capital: RM50 million.
* Hornbill Skyways’ current net tangible asset: RM200 million.
* Sarawak’s target to become an advanced region: 2030.
* Hornbill Skyways is looking to acquire a 42-seater plane.
* Hornbill Skyways has plans to acquire an 18-seater turboprop aircraft.
* Potential future jet aircraft for AirBornéo: Airbus 320 or Boeing 737.

Read the Complete Article.