By Karen Bong
LUNDU, March 4: Existing MASwings staff will be given priority in the transition to Sarawak-owned new airline, AirBorneo, as stipulated 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.
“The number of staff to be absorbed exceeds 300, but I do not have the exact figure yet. Only if they choose not to join us will we recruit from outside.
“If there are vacancies and airline personnel from other companies wish to apply, they are welcome to do so. However, our priority is to retain all existing staff,” he said in a pre-recorded press conference after visiting the Aerospace Academy at the Centre of Excellence for Technology Sarawak (Centexs) today.
Lee also revealed that a meeting between Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) and MASwings will be held in March to discuss the transition.
“I intend to facilitate discussions between Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) and MASwings staff. I will be meeting them soon to address this matter,” he added.
Meanwhile, Sarawak’s upcoming airline is on track to take over regional air services, with full operations expected in the first quarter of 2026.
AirBorneo’s board members and management team are accelerating operational preparations, focusing on regulatory approvals, workforce readiness and branding strategies.
Key priorities include compliance with Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) and the Malaysian Aviation Commission (MAVCOM), finalising the airline’s rebranding, and ensuring a seamless transition from MASwings.
Preliminary work is already underway, including the establishment of AirBorneo’s office and the recruitment of key personnel. — DayakDaily
