By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, Feb 23: Sarawak’s upcoming airline, AirBorneo, is expected to enhance regional connectivity by providing direct flights to nearby destinations like Nusantara, eliminating the need for transit through Jakarta.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian pointed out that some exhibitors from Nusantara attending the Borneo International Consumer Expo (BICE) 2025 had to first fly to Jakarta before reaching Kuching, despite Nusantara being geographically closer.
“That is why AirBorneo will play an important role. It will not only enhance connectivity, but we also want it to be affordable,” he said when officiating the BICE 2025 event held at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) today.
Beyond improving accessibility, Dr Sim emphasised that AirBorneo could elevate Sarawak’s global presence, much like how Emirates Airline transformed Dubai into a world-renowned hub.
“Forty years ago, nobody had heard of Dubai. Today, Dubai is the regional hub for tourism, trade and finance, largely because of Emirates.
“That is why I want fellow Sarawakians to understand that AirBorneo will work hand in hand with our new international airport as part of a larger ecosystem. In 40 years, we want Sarawak, particularly Kuching, to become a regional hub for various activities, driven by AirBorneo and flagship events like BICE.
“We may start small, but 40 years from now, the younger generation will see the impact of what we are building today,” he added.
Also present were Deputy Minister in Sarawak Premier’s Department (Corporate Affairs, Information and Sarawak Public Communications Unit) Datuk Abdullah Saidol; Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) Sarawak director Matthew Dominic Barin; Dewan Gabungan Usahawan Asia national president Wynson Ong Teck Ping; Consul General of the Republic of Indonesia in Kuching, Raden Sigit Witjaksono; and Institute of Teacher Education Malaysia, Batu Lintang Campus (IPGMKBL) director Dr Abang Ismail Abang Julhi. – DayakDaily
