By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Jan 2: Sarawak’s own airline, AirBorneo, officially launched its inaugural flights from Kuching International Airport (KIA) today, marking a historic milestone in the State’s aviation journey.
The first flight, MH3242 operated by an ATR72-500, departed for Mukah at 8.40am carrying 54 passengers, followed by MH3711 operated by a DHC6-400 to Tanjung Manis at 8.50am with 15 passengers on board, both aircraft bearing the AirBorneo livery.
Officiating the inaugural flights ceremony, Minister for Transport Sarawak Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin said the launch of AirBorneo represents a key milestone in the Sarawak government’s long-term development agenda, positioning aviation as a critical enabler of connectivity, economic growth and inclusive development.
He said AirBorneo was established as a State-owned aviation platform to serve the long-term interests of Sarawakians, particularly in a geographically dispersed State where air connectivity is essential rather than optional.
“This is a significant step in strengthening our aviation connectivity and supporting Sarawak’s long-term economic development. For Sarawak, air connectivity is not a luxury but a necessity,” he said.
Lee highlighted that aviation plays a vital role in connecting rural and remote communities, supporting tourism and trade, enabling access to education and healthcare, and facilitating business and investment across the Sarawak.
He added that the aviation sector delivers a strong multiplier effect on regional economies, creating employment not only within airlines and airports but also across supply chains and local businesses, while contributing to higher income levels, tourism growth and the attraction of higher-value economic activities.
Through AirBorneo, the Sarawak government now owns and operates MASwings, which continues to provide essential Rural Air Services (RAS) across Sarawak, Sabah and Labuan.
Lee assured that during the transition period, operations will continue as business as usual, with safety, reliability and service continuity remaining the top priorities for passengers.
He said AirBorneo has been designed with a dual mandate, to operate with commercial discipline and sound governance, while at the same time fulfilling an essential public service role in keeping communities connected.
“As RAS operations stabilise operationally and financially, AirBorneo will progressively expand to selected regional routes,” he said, adding that any expansion would be guided by aircraft availability, market demand, route sustainability and applicable bilateral air service agreements to ensure prudent and responsible growth.
Lee also stressed the importance of developing local capability across the aviation value chain, including flight operations, engineering, safety oversight, planning and management.
In this regard, he said the state government would work closely with local institutions such as i-CATS University College, CENTEX, Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus and Curtin University Malaysia to build long-term resilience and retain skilled talent in Sarawak.
He expressed appreciation to the officers and staff of AirBorneo for their sustained efforts since the announcement by the Premier of Sarawak on the government’s intention to acquire MASwings, particularly in negotiations and coordination with federal agencies to support the establishment of AirBorneo.
Lee also thanked Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB), the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM), as well as the AirBorneo and MASwings teams for their cooperation and dedication, and the media for their continued support in keeping the public informed.
“We are committed to engaging with all stakeholders openly and constructively as AirBorneo moves into its next phase.
“With AirBorneo, Sarawak is building a well-governed and forward-looking aviation platform that supports connectivity, economic resilience and future opportunities,” he said.
The ceremony also witnessed the unveiling of AirBorneo’s official cabin crew uniform, symbolising the beginning of a new era in Sarawak’s aviation industry. The design combines modern elements with Sarawak’s local heritage identity, reflecting the State’s unique character.
AirBorneo assumed full legal and operational responsibility for MASwings effective Thursday (Jan 1), following the signing of the Sale and Purchase Agreement between the Sarawak government and Malaysia Aviation Group on Feb 12, 2025.
Sarawak Secretary and AirBorneo Holdings Sdn Bhd chairman Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, Deputy Transport Minister Datuk Dr Jerip Susil, Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Corporate Affairs and Ukas) Datuk Abdullah Saidol, Sarawak Financial Secretary Dato Sri Dr Wan Lizozman Wan Omar, Sarawak Attorney-General Dato Sri Saferi Ali and AirBorneo chief executive officer (CEO) Megat Ardian Wira Mohd Aminuddin were among the distinguished guests present. — DayakDaily
