KUCHING: Air connectivity is important to maintain Sarawak — and Malaysia — as attractive destinations for international tourists, investors and retirees.
ArunAmi MM2H Sdn Bhd managing director and principal consultant Azreen Octavious believes that the reduced number of flight routes — as recently announced by Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) — is likely to have a significant impact on inbound and outbound travels to and from Sarawak.
Azreen, who facilitates the Sarawak Malaysia My Second Home (S-MM2H) programme by directly engaging with international clients on long-term residency and tourism in the state, said it could limit accessibility and investors as well as potentially reduce the flow of visitors to the region.
“Personally, as someone who frequently travels to West Malaysia and Singapore for both business and leisure, this reduction could pose challenges in terms of cost and time management, which are critical factors in maintaining business efficiency.
“Any reduction in flight services could adversely affect perceptions of convenience, potentially leading some to reconsider Sarawak as their preferred destination,” he told the Sarawak Tribune.
Last week, the MAG announced that Malaysia Airlines, Firefly and Amal are temporarily reducing operations until December this year to address supply chain and technical issues, following a string of flight delays and cancellations as well as recent aircraft diversions and emergency landings.
MAG managing director Izham Ismail said his group is working closely with aircraft and engine manufacturers as well as a wide range of suppliers to comprehensively address the supply chain and technical issues.
“As this takes place, MAG will need to temporarily reduce its network between now and December, to execute corrective measures where needed.
“This is to ensure the longterm reliability of our fleet and robustness of our operations and enhance our ability to ensure our customers on Malaysia Airlines, Firefly and Amal services face minimal disruptions and have the best experience possible flying with us,” he said.
Azreen hoped that Sarawak will continue to hold its appeal and for the MAG to have prompt solutions on these operational issues.
“However, I am concerned about how a decrease in number of available flights typically lead to increased demand for the remaining services which could in turn drive up airfare prices.
“This scenario might deter potential clients considering Sarawak for their second home as well as be of inconvenience to regular business and leisure travelers.
“As a business owner who has navigated the ups and downs of Sarawak’s tourism industry over the years, I remain optimistic, and I am confident that the state will adapt and continue to grow. While the immediate future may present challenges, Sarawak’s resilience and the dedication of its stakeholders will ensure its ongoing success as a prime destination,” he said.
Meanwhile, Universiti Malaya (UM) final year student Deandra Faith also expressed concerns that reduced flight routes could lead to higher airfare prices.
The 23-year-old who travels frequently between Kuching and Kuala Lumpur said this is a primary concern for herself and her peers as majority of students presently face struggles in securing their flight tickets.
“I am hoping for a positive development on this matter so more students like me will still be able to travel back home and to campus without the inconvenience of high airfare prices”, she said.
Despite the availability of other commercial airlines, Deandra said fewer flight routes by the national carrier may impact exchange programmes and international students who are planning to further their education in Malaysian universities.
“If the number of flights were to continue to be reduced especially with no proposition to deal with the issue, international students may dismiss Malaysia as a destination to further their studies.
“It will also affect the public’s appeal towards Malaysian commercial airlines as they would have concerns about safety onboard the aircrafts,” she said.
