By Doreen Ling
KUCHING, Nov 1: Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg is optimistic that AirBorneo’s upcoming operations will eventually connect Kuching and Kuantan—the capital of Pahang—through a new flight route.
He remarked that Sarawak and Pahang could also work together to develop integrated tourism packages designed to promote eco- and cultural tourism.
“Pahang and Sarawak enjoy a longstanding partnership, especially in developing handicrafts, tourism, and cultural heritage preservation. These areas reflect the unique identity of our communities—something we must continue to showcase and cherish both nationally and internationally.
“The diversity of our culture and handmade products forms a vital part of our tourism sectors and serves as a key economic driver for both Pahang and Sarawak, and for Malaysia as a whole,” he said.
He said this at the Sarawak–Pahang Friendship Night at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly Complex here on Monday (Oct 31) in conjunction with His Royal Highness, the Sultan of Pahang, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah and Her Royal Highness, Tengku Ampuan Pahang Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah’s four-day official visit to Sarawak. The programme was livestreamed by the Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas).
“Through joint promotions, cultural exchanges, and stronger air and land connectivity, Sarawak and Pahang can together showcase to the world the true beauty of Malaysia—a nation rich in diversity and unity,” he said.
Meanwhile, Abang Johari also spoke on how beloved Their Royal Highnesses are by the people of Sarawak, which was evident during their memorable Pan Borneo Highway road trip in 2023.
“That visit was more than an official engagement—it symbolised Your Royal Highnesses’ affection for the people of Borneo, particularly those in Sarawak. The people received Royal Highnesses with deep love and respect, touched by your compassion and concern for their well-being.
“Your Royal Highnesses’ footsteps on the Land of the Hornbills will always be remembered as a symbol of unity between Peninsular and East Malaysia in the true spirit of Malaysia Madani,” he said.
The son of Sultan of Pahang, Tengku Arif Bendahara Tengku Muhammad Iskandar Ri’ayatuddin Shah, and his wife, Tengku Natasya Puteri Tengku Adnan; Pahang Menteri Besar, Dato Sri Diraja Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail, and his wife, Datin Sri Diraja Dato Burhah Mohammed; Sarawak TYT, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, and his wife, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi; Sarawak Deputy Premier, Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, and his wife, Datin Amar Enn Ong Siok Ean; Speaker of the Sarawak Legislative Assembly, Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar, and his wife, Dato Fatimah Mohd Iskandar; Sarawak Secretary, Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, and his wife, Dato Baduyah Bujang; and Pahang Secretary, Dato Sri Nazri Abu Bakar, were among those present. — DayakDaily
