By Christine T
KUCHING, Oct 14: Ba’Kelalan assemblyman Baru Bian proposes exploring a direct air link between Lawas and Long Bawan in North Kalimantan, Indonesia, following the expected completion of the new Lawas Airport in 2028.
Speaking during the debate on the 2027 Supply Bill at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly today, Baru proposed that the Sarawak government and AirBorneo study the feasibility of establishing the route as Long Bawan already had a regional airport, presenting an opportunity to improve air connectivity between Sarawak and Indonesian Borneo.
“Lawas is strategically positioned to serve as one of Sarawak’s gateways to Kalimantan and the wider Nusantara region, especially with Indonesia developing its new capital, Nusantara,” he said.
“With Lawas Airport as a future regional hub, we should look beyond domestic connectivity and envision Lawas as part of a wider Borneo and Nusantara air network,” he added.
Baru said the proposed route could facilitate tourism, trade, business and people-to-people exchanges between the two regions.
Meanwhile, he noted on the progress of the new airport which is expected to be completed in 2028. He said, the airport would be an important catalyst for socio-economic development, tourism and investment in Lawas and the wider Limbang Division. — DayakDaily
