By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Feb 12: The Sarawak government has officially acquired MASwings, marking a historic milestone in the State’s aviation sector with the launch of AirBorneo, a new full-service carrier set to transform regional and international air travel.
The acquisition was sealed through the signing of a Sale and Purchase Agreement (SPA) between the Sarawak government and Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) held at a hotel here today.
According to MAG, the transfer is expected to be completed by the end of the year, with MAG working closely with all stakeholders, including shareholder Khazanah Nasional Berhad, to ensure a seamless transition and compliance with all relevant legal and regulatory frameworks.
Throughout this transition period, MASwings will continue operating as usual under the purview of MAG, with no disruptions to flight schedules, ensuring uninterupted air services for the communities that rely on them.
In his keynote address, Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg emphasised that this strategic move positions Sarawak as an aviation hub for Borneo and a gateway to Asean, unlocking economic opportunities while enhancing air connectivity to both domestic and international destinations that will benefit our local communities and businesses alike.
“As we have long recognised, control over our air services is essential – not just for facilitating passenger transportation but as a catalyst for economic growth.
“AirBorneo is poised to create balance between connectivity, affordable fares and economic benefits,” he said.
Abang Johari highlighted that this empowers Sarawak to take control of and manage its air connectivity, allowing the State to tailor services that meet the needs of its people and economy.
“With plans for new international routes and key markets, we are elevating Sarawak into a prominent player in the regional aviation sector. This enhanced connectivity will not only boost tourism but also attract investments that will help to invigorate our local economies,” he said.
Under its new identity, AirBorneo will operate as a full-service carrier (FSC), offering superior in-flight services and elevating Sarawak’s reputation as a premium travel destination.
While maintaining its crucial Rural Air Services (RAS) to remote areas, the airline will gradually expand its network, offering direct international routes to enhance Sarawak’s global accessibility.
“AirBorneo will of course still focus on RAS and progressively on destinations within four hour radius, before expanding further in the future, if the travel market warrants it,” Abang Johari explained.
The airline will also engage in strategic partnerships and codeshare agreements with international carriers, including Malaysia Airlines, to extend its reach and integrate seamlessly into the global aviation network.
Abang Johari highlighted the importance of working closely with Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) to ensure a seamless transition, leveraging MAG’s expertise to maintain service quality and operational efficiency.
“We will continue collaborating with MAG to ensure a smooth handover, minimising disruptions while upholding high service standards,” he added.
Beyond improving air connectivity, AirBorneo will also play a pivotal role in boosting tourism and business travel, positioning Sarawak as a key destination for tourists and business people alike, to attract more visitors to Sarawak and Sabah and boost both the tourism and business sectors.
“These joint efforts will not only strengthen the partnership but also contribute to the broader development of the aviation industry in Malaysia,” he added.
The SPA was signed by Sarawak Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, who is also the chairman of AirBorneo, and MAG Group managing director Datuk Captain Izham Ismail, representing Malaysia Aviation Group.
The event was witnessed by Malaysia’s Minister of Transport Anthony Loke, Deputy Premiers Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas and Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, Sarawak Legislative Assembly Speaker Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohammad Asfia Awang Nasar, Minister of Transport Sarawak Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, MAG board member Dato Amirul Feisal Wan Zahir.
As AirBorneo takes flight, the skies of Borneo and beyond are set to witness a new era of growth and prosperity, driven by the wings of Sarawak.
“Fly to the World with Wings of Sarawak” – a slogan that encapsulates the State’s aspirations to soar to new heights in the global aviation landscape. — DayakDaily
