By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Aug 18: South Korea is among the potential new destinations being considered for direct AirBorneo flights from Kuching, with Jeju Island a key option, along with Bangkok in Thailand.
According to Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Sarawak, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, a direct air link between Kuching and Jeju could open up more tourism opportunities, given that both destinations have attractions associated with Unesco Global Geopark (UGGp) status.
He said Jeju Island has already received the recognition, while Kuching is expected to receive the recognition next year.
“So, South Korea is definitely on our radar for direct air connectivity, and we hope AirBorneo can make it a reality in the near future,” he said during a press conference after attending the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Travel Mart (PTM) 2026 Knowledge Forum at a leading hotel here today, as reported by the Sarawak Public Communication Unit.
Abdul Karim added that the proposal also takes into account Sarawakians’ strong interest in travelling to South Korea, as well as the country’s potential as a tourism market.
According to him, South Korea has impressive achievements in various fields, including music, technology, automotive, and sports, making it an attractive market to explore.
Meanwhile, he said Bangkok is also among the destinations AirBorneo is considering after launching direct flights to Jakarta next month.
“That is why Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg wants Jeju Island as a destination, perhaps after Jakarta.
“Jakarta will be the next destination next month, but after that it could be Bangkok or Jeju Island,” he said. — DayakDaily
