By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, June 9: Sarawak Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin has proposed that Baohang International explore the possibility of introducing direct flights between China and Miri.
In a media release, he cited Miri’s potential as a tourism and business destination, as well as it being geographically closer to China, which could result in shorter travelling times and potentially lower operating costs.
“Miri also serves as the gateway to northern Sarawak and offers access to world-renowned attractions such as Mulu National Park, Niah National Park, the Brunei-Sarawak growth corridor, and various eco-tourism destinations,” he said following a courtesy call by Baohang International chief executive officer (CEO) Brandon Zhu at Bangunan Baitulmakmur in Petra Jaya here on Monday (June 8).
At the same time, he said that Zhu also shared the company’s intention to explore the launch of a future Shanghai–Kuching direct service, which Lee welcomed, noting that Shanghai is one of China’s leading economic and financial centres, and direct connectivity would further strengthen business and investment links between Sarawak and China.
The media release also noted that Baohang International is exploring potential cooperation with AirBorneo, including the possibility of serving as the airline’s General Sales Agent (GSA) in China, which could help AirBorneo expand its market reach in China and support future route development efforts.
Meanwhile, Zhu also briefed Lee on the performance of the Guangzhou–Kuching direct flight service operated by Batik Air, which commenced operations on March 17 this year.
According to the company, as of June 6, the route had completed 22 return flights, carrying a total of 5,892 passengers with an average load factor of 85 per cent.
About 40 per cent of passengers travelled as part of organised tour groups, while the remaining 60 per cent were independent travellers and bookings made through online travel agencies (OTAs). The route has also handled a cumulative cargo throughput of 44 tonnes since its launch.
Lee said the encouraging performance demonstrates the growing demand for direct connectivity between Sarawak and China and reflects the strong potential of the Chinese market.
“I welcome the initiative by the private sector in opening and promoting direct international routes to Sarawak. Such services not only benefit travellers from both sides, but also facilitate business exchanges, tourism growth and economic cooperation.
“The Sarawak government fully supports efforts that enhance our international connectivity and bring more visitors and investment opportunities to Sarawak,” he said.
He noted that China remains one of Sarawak’s most important economic partners, with an increasing number of Chinese companies investing and participating in development projects across the state, particularly in sectors such as renewable energy, manufacturing, infrastructure, logistics, and technology.
At the same time, he said Sarawak has become an increasingly attractive destination for Chinese tourists due to its unique cultural diversity, rich natural attractions, eco-tourism offerings, and reputation as a safe and welcoming destination. — DayakDaily
