SARAWAK’S longstanding dream of establishing its own airline feels closer and more achievable than ever.
The recent announcement by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg during the Lan Berambeh Anak Sarawak 2024 event in Kuala Lumpur has heightened excitement.
With the Sarawak government moving toward the acquisition of MASwings Sdn Bhd, the regional airline servicing Sabah and Sarawak, the prospect of a state-owned airline could be finalised by year’s end.
This move has already gained approval in principle from the Malaysian Aviation Commission (Mavcom), the Ministry of Transport, and Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG).
I can hardly contain my excitement at the thought of Sarawak finally having its own airline! I believe the majority of Sarawakians, along with frequent visitors and tourists alike, who travel to and from Sarawak, share this excitement too and eagerly await the day it happens.
The airline’s name has not been decided though, but based on initial plans it is scheduled to begin operations next year.
The enthusiasm surrounding this venture is understandable. For years, Sarawakians have faced limited flight options, high fares, and unreliable schedules, impacting their ability to travel easily within and outside the state.
These issues have intensified recently, with frequent cancellations and delays sometimes leaving travellers stranded overnight. A Sarawak-owned airline promises to change this, easing travel burdens while opening new doors for tourism and economic growth.
Sarawak’s ambition is about meeting a pressing need for better connectivity and dependable service.
Creating a state-owned airline allows for greater control over routes, fairer pricing, and tailored services, ensuring reliable, affordable flights that align with Sarawak’s unique requirements.
Currently, high airfares — reaching up to RM1,000-2,000 one-way during peak periods — are a burden for many, with air travel being the only viable option for many Sarawakians travelling outside the region. This new airline could offer Sarawakians and frequent visitors much-needed relief.
Of course, I don’t deny I have some concerns, as launching an airline is no small feat and comes with its fair share of risks. Yet, seeing the dedication and commitment demonstrated by the State government gives me confidence that it will become a reality.
Fellow Malaysians and frequent traveliers to Sarawak will likely empathise with the challenges of air travel in the region, having experienced them first-hand.
However, those who don’t regularly travel to Sabah and Sarawak may not fully appreciate these difficulties. For many Sarawakians, air travel is the sole means of reaching destinations beyond the region, making reliable and affordable flights not just a convenience but an essential need.
This Sarawak-owned airline, once in operation, will undoubtedly be a game-changer. It will also augur well with Sarawak’s aspiration of becoming a regional aviation hub.
As Southeast Asia grows as a tourism and business destination, a regional hub in Sarawak could capture some of this market, positioning the state as a gateway to Borneo and beyond.
This, in turn, would stimulate supporting infrastructure, from enhanced airport facilities to logistics centres, further creating job opportunities.
So, while the journey will require significant investment, strategic vision, and careful planning, the dedication and commitment demonstrated by Sarawak’s leadership inspire confidence.
This isn’t just about owning an airline; it’s about fulfilling a vital need, building a sustainable future, and ensuring that Sarawak’s aspirations for greater connectivity and independence take flight.
The views expressed here are those of the columnist and do not necessarily represent the views of Sarawak Tribune.
