KUCHING: The Sarawak government’s acquisition of MASwings to establish AirBorneo is a strategic long-term investment that will strengthen aviation connectivity and support the state’s future economic growth.
Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap said the move should be viewed beyond a simple airline rebranding exercise, stressing it represents Sarawak’s ambition to gain greater control over its aviation services.
“The establishment of AirBorneo was never merely about changing the name of an airline,” he said.
“It is a strategic long-term initiative to strengthen Sarawak’s aviation connectivity, enhance our economic competitiveness and gradually provide Sarawakians with greater control over our own air transport services.” Yap said in a press statement on Wednesday (July 8).
He also expressed support for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, who defended the state’s decision to acquire MASwings instead of establishing an entirely new airline.
He said acquiring MASwings allowed Sarawak to inherit an existing Air Operator Certificate, established regional routes, experienced aviation personnel, operational infrastructure, maintenance systems and airport slots, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity during the ownership transition.
“Creating a completely new airline from the ground up would likely have delayed operations for years, potentially affecting rural communities and disrupting essential regional air services throughout Sarawak,” he said.
He acknowledged that recent flight disruptions involving AirBorneo had caused inconvenience to passengers but said such challenges were common during major aviation transitions and reflected broader global industry issues.
“These temporary difficulties should not be used to declare the acquisition a failure,” Yap said.
“AirBorneo should be given the time and space to implement fleet renewal plans, improve operational reliability and achieve its long-term vision.”
Yap added that while constructive criticism remains important in a democratic society, public discussions should be balanced, fair and grounded in practical realities, recognising the strategic benefits the acquisition has already delivered.
He expressed confidence that under the leadership of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and the Sarawak government, AirBorneo would continue improving through fleet modernisation, stronger operational efficiency and enhanced service quality for all Sarawakians.
