THE usage of private jets by Sarawak government leaders and officials offers several advantages over commercial aircraft including enhanced safety and security.
Deputy Premier and Second Minister of Finance and New Economy, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said private jets also offer greater flexibility in travel arrangements.
“The safety of the state leaders as well as high-rank government officials is of utmost importance and cannot be quantified by monetary means and we take all necessary precautions to ensure a safe and secure journey, especially for travel overseas.
“As such, using private jets is a viable option that can provide the necessary level of security and safety,” he said when delivering the winding-up speech for his ministry at the Legislative Assembly sitting today.
Uggah was alluding to points raised by Pending assemblywoman Violet Yong when debating on the address of the Yang di-Pertua Negeri. The Pending assemblywoman had questioned the use of a private jet by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and other state leaders on their official trip to London recently.
The Deputy Premier said Sarawak government had entered into a contract with Hornbill Skyways for the provision of aircraft services for the state leaders including the Governor, Premier, Deputy Premier and Cabinet Ministers.
He clarified that the type of jet used was not decided by the state government but determined by Hornbill Skyways based on the journey and technical suitability of the aircraft for long-haul travel.
