By Ashley Sim
KUCHING, March 31: The headquarters of MASwings, currently based in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, will be relocated to Sarawak, says Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
Abang Johari assured that MASwings staff would be given options during the transition period.
“We’ll give staff the option—whether they want to continue working or choose a different path. I think by next year, this process [takeover] should be resolved,” he told reporters when asked to comment on the current status of Sarawak’s upcoming airline, AirBorneo, during the ‘Majlis Rumah Terbuka Hari Raya Aidilfitri Premier Sarawak 2025’ held today at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK).
Meanwhile, regarding the AirBorneo logo and livery design competition, the Premier said the selection process is still ongoing.
“I’m still reviewing feedback from our competition. We will choose the best design for AirBorneo. After that, we will proceed in phases,” he noted.
It was reported on March 4 that existing MASwings staff will be given priority in the transition to AirBorneo, as outlined in the agreement.
Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin explained that only those who opt out of joining AirBorneo will be excluded, with any vacancies to be filled by external applicants.
Lee mentioned that over 300 MASwings staff will be absorbed into AirBorneo.
AirBorneo is reportedly on track to take over regional air services, with full operations anticipated by the first quarter of 2026. — DayakDaily
