KUCHING: The state’s new airline, AirBorneo, will not solely focus on profitability but will trigger economic growth and travel convenience for Sarawak residents and international tourists.
Sarawak’s Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, stated that AirBorneo is not just an additional transport option with affordable fares but also a driver for the state’s tourism industry development.
“We have emphasized that we will be fair. If we can maintain a balance within the first five years—not making a profit but not incurring losses either—that would be sufficient,” he said.
He made this statement during a press conference at the launch of the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts (MTCP) Sarawak Integrity Day 2025 at the Hilton Hotel, today (Feb 13).
Abdul Karim also highlighted that by having its airline, Sarawak now has the power to determine flight routes and marketing strategies without relying on other airlines.
He is optimistic that AirBorneo will boost tourist arrivals in Sarawak, further stimulating the state’s tourism industry with support from the Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) and other initiatives.
“Before, we had no privilege of deciding our destinations and marketing strategies.
“However, with AirBorneo, we can make our own decisions. For now, we are maintaining existing routes like MASwings, but in the long term, we will improve and open new routes,” he said.
Dismissing concerns that AirBorneo would threaten existing airlines, he emphasised that its presence would foster healthy competition in the local aviation industry.
“I do not see this as competition. Instead, all parties are enhancing the tourism and aviation industries.
“With more airlines operating, consumers will benefit from better services and more competitive fares,” he explained.
He further stated that AirBorneo will operate as a strong national airline with financial backing from the state government, similar to the airline models of other countries, such as Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, and Emirates.
“AirBorneo is supported by a progressive state government with strong financial resources.
“Therefore, it will not focus solely on profit but on comprehensive development in the aviation sector,” he added.
Additionally, Kuching will serve as AirBorneo’s main hub, creating numerous job opportunities in aviation engineering, aircraft maintenance, and other related services.
He noted that the economic spillover effects from this hub would be significant, requiring more skilled and professional workers in the aviation sector.
Also present at the event were Deputy Ministers of MTCP, Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew and Datuk Snowdan Lawan, MTCP Permanent Secretary Datu Sherinna Hussaini, STB Chief Executive Officer Sharzede Datu Salleh Askor, and other guests.
