KUCHING: Minister for Transport, Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin chaired an engagement meeting yesterday with the board members and management team of AirBorneo at his office.
The meeting focused on the airline’s operational preparations, addressing key regulatory, operational, and strategic aspects to ensure a smooth take-over.
Key discussion areas included compliance with the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) and the Malaysian Aviation Commission (MAVCOM) to meet both national and international aviation regulatory requirements and compliance.
The meeting also covered the airline’s rebranding efforts, strategic roadmap, and future direction, with the aim of finalising preparations within the year and commencing operations by the first quarter of 2026.
“Preliminary work is already underway, including the establishment of AirBorneo’s office and the recruitment of key personnel,” said Lee.
“As part of the next phase, discussions will be held with Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) to facilitate a seamless transition process.
“Additionally, engagements with MASwings employees will be conducted to gain insights into current operations and ensure workforce readiness.”
The meeting also approved the launch of a Logo and Livery Design Competition, inviting public participation in shaping the identity of Sarawak’s very own airline.
“Further details on the competition will be announced soon, and we encourage the public to actively participate in this exciting initiative,” he added.
He highlighted that during the transition period until Dec 31, 2025, several regulatory, operational, and financial conditions must be met before the full legal and beneficial transfer of MASwings to AirBorneo.
He added that AirBorneo Holdings has up to Dec 31, 2025, to fulfill all conditions precedent of the MASwings acquisition transaction.
The following precedents set out include MAVCOM approval, CAAM approval, application to IATA for accounting code and 2LD, application to ICAO for 3LD, approval for the change of shareholders of MASwings from the Federal Government etc.
“These conditions include, Regulatory Compliance – Obtaining necessary approvals from CAAM and MAVCOM, particularly regarding shareholder transitions and licensing requirements.
“Apart from that was Operational Readiness – Ensuring smooth integration of assets and systems, operational transition, fleet acquisition, branding finalization, and workforce establishment and New Rural Air Services (RAS) Agreement – Finalising a revised Public Service Obligation (PSO) Agreement with the Federal Government to sustain rural air connectivity beyond 2026,
“The Sarawak government remains committed to ensuring a seamless transition and the successful launch of AirBorneo, reinforcing the region’s connectivity and economic growth opportunities,” he said.
