SIBU: The acquisition of MASWings by Sarawak will boost the local tourism and creative industry said State Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Snowdan Lawan.
He said by having a state-owned airline, the region would be able to connect with neighbouring countries within a six to seven-hour flight time, including South Korea, Japan, China and more.
The Balai Ringin assemblyman said neighbouring countries would no longer need to transit through Kuala Lumpur or Singapore to travel to Sarawak.
“As of now, MASwings primarily operates rural air services in Sabah and Sarawak. We (the state government) want it to go beyond Borneo.
“This is of great importance, as it will significantly enhance our tourism and creative industry,” he said in his speech at the Annual Gala Dinner M.O Sarawak 2023 at a renowned hotel here last night (Oct 28).
On Friday (Oct 27), Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the state Transport Ministry, state-owned Hornbill Skyways Sdn Bhd, and Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) for the management of rural air services by acquiring shares in MASwings.
With the MOU signing Sarawak is looking to officially acquire MASwings within the next three months and commence its first flight by next year.
