KUCHING: Air services are crucial to support efforts and initiatives to further develop and strengthen Sarawak’s economy.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said besides the general public, air services are crucial to business communities who are interested to come and invest in the state.
By having the state’s own boutique airline and establishing more connectivity, he expressed confidence that this will further spur the state’s economy.
“We have people from Korea who are investing in Sarawak. They informed me that they have to go through Singapore and sometimes stay overnight before continuing on their journey to the state.
“If we were to look at the distance range, you can perhaps fly for five to six hours from Seoul to reach Kuching thus eliminating a layover in Kuala Lumpur or Singapore.
“While some have said taking over MASWings may incur costs, the economic question is that when you experience loss in one aspect, you will gain somewhere,” he said.
He made these remarks before witnessing the memorandum of understanding (MOU) signing ceremony for the acquisition of RAS by the state government today.
Abang Johari pointed out that investors will be motivated to come to Sarawak when facilities like direct air services and connectivity are available.
With the various new industries surrounding renewable and green energy being established in the state, he said this provides Sarawak with numerous advantages.
“There must be flight connectivity (from Sarawak) to the countries whose investors are putting money in the state and creating numerous job opportunities.
“Furthermore, the tourism sector will also benefit from this. Last year, we received a visit from the President of Germany who was so eager to see our wildlife and forests.
“Based on the president and his entourage’s enthusiasm during the visit, I believe there are many more Germans who share the same excitement when they are thinking about Sarawak,” he added.
