By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, July 26: AirBorneo’s planned affordable fare model of RM375 has already triggered a response from other airlines, with competitors lowering their prices to remain competitive.
Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the introduction of Sarawak’s own airline was aimed at giving travellers more options while addressing concerns over rising airfares, particularly during peak travel periods such as festive seasons and school holidays.
“When we introduced the RM375 fare, AirAsia and Malaysia Airlines (MAS) also reduced their airfares,” he said at Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu’s (PBB) Special Convention for the Central Zone in Sibu today. A recording of his speech was later shared with DayakDaily.
Abang Johari said the objective was not to force travellers to choose AirBorneo, but to ensure passengers had more choices and that airfares remained reasonable.
“It is up to us whether we use AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines, Firefly or AirBorneo, as long as the price is reasonable,” he said.
He said Sarawakians had long faced sharp fare increases during peak periods such as festive seasons and school holidays, adding that high ticket prices could burden families travelling together.
He said a family travelling to Kuching could face significant costs when ticket prices and additional baggage charges were taken into account.
“That is why I am determined to challenge this situation. That is why AirBorneo, owned by Sarawak, was created,” he said.
Abang Johari said AirBorneo represented a new era for Sarawak’s connectivity, adding that the State would expand its fleet gradually through proper planning.
“At least you have an option — which airline, which aircraft you want to use. It is up to you. But the fare must be reasonable at RM375,” he said.
He also stressed that the benefits of AirBorneo would extend to all Sarawakians regardless of political affiliation.
“Whether they are from the opposition or not, everyone benefits. They also need to fly, they cannot swim,” he emphasised. — DayakDaily
