KUCHING: Moves are underway to explore the feasibility of establishing direct air links between China and Sarawak.
Officials from China’s Aviation International Construction and Investment Co Ltd and Aviation Investment Group Co Ltd are now in town to get a better feel of the idea.
Sarawak Trade and Tourism Office Singapore (STATOS) chief executive officer Chew Chang Guan who is in charge of coordinating the companies’ visit, said they are currently in the city to gain a deeper understanding of Kuching.
“Today, we welcome the aviation group from China together with their partner from Singapore who are here for a two-day quick study tour,” he said after a meeting between STATOS and officials from the companies at Borneo Cultures Museum (BCM) here on Monday (May 8).
“They are studying whether Kuching is a suitable destination for them to fly directly from China.
“The aviation group is considering a few cities in Malaysia, one of them is Kuching.”
Chew added that a guide has been engaged to provide insights into the rich history and culture of Sarawak and its diverse range of products.
“During this short trip, among the places the group will be visiting is the BCM and Sarawak Cultural Village.
“Additionally, they will be taken to experience Sarawak dishes such as Kolo Mee, Laksa and others,” he said.
He added the group is also scheduled to meet with state Transport Minister Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin, representative from Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) and other relevant ministries to assess the preparedness of Kuching, including its facilities, in accommodating tourist arrivals from China.
As to how optimistic he is on the potential direct flight to Kuching, Chew said he is looking forward to the good news.
“I’m sure Sarawak in general welcomes more tourists to come and hopefully we have the direct flight (from China to Sarawak).
“I think our Minister always says it is not only about tourism but trade, investment and the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) opportunity,” he said.
Among those present were China Aviation International Construction and Investment Co Ltd Chairman Bai Haiping and Aviation Investment Group Co Ltd chairman Jianming Gao.
