By Ling Hui, Nur Ashikin Louis & Chris Bishop
KUCHING, April 17: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has principally approved Sarawak’s proposal to set up its own boutique airline.
He said the matter would be discussed in Wednesday’s (April 19) Cabinet meeting, and the final decision would be announced.
“So, don’t worry, Premier (Abang Johari). We will give you an official answer by Wednesday (April 19) afternoon.
“As the chairman of the Cabinet meeting, I have already approved the proposal. Therefore, god-willing, my colleagues (in the Cabinet) will agree with me,” he said.
Anwar said his approval of Sarawak’s initiative did not come lightly but was based on merits and good track records displayed by the Sarawak government.
He said Sarawak has been leading in many aspects, including administration, infrastructure development, capability, income generation, and environmental sustainability.
“Because of the Sarawak government’s good performance, I have enough confidence (in Sarawak) because running an airline is no easy task.
“A lot of experience in various fields is required, but looking at the Sarawak government’s capability, I agree with Sarawak setting up a boutique airline of their own,” said Anwar during the launching of Raia Hotel & Convention Centre here tonight.
Anwar, also the Finance Minister of Malaysia, responded to Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s direct request to approve the boutique airline proposal.
In his short but precise speech earlier, Abang Johari stressed the need for Sarawak to have its own boutique airline, not to increase competition but to stabilise airfare prices.
He said affordable air tickets to Sarawak and Sabah are important in attracting investors and tourists to the Borneo regions.
“There are so many natural attractions here, but there is one problem. We are on the Borneo Island. Therefore, visitors must travel by plane to Sarawak and Sabah. There is no other option, but the fare is expensive.
“That is why the Sarawak government proposed to set up its own boutique airline, and I hope that YAB Prime Minister can approve this,” he said. — DayakDaily
