KUCHING: Inspired by Dubai’s transformation through Emirates, Sarawak is positioning AirBorneo as a key pillar in expanding connectivity, attracting investment and driving economic growth beyond.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said a strong airline connectivity network would create wider economic spillover effects, benefiting sectors such as tourism, hospitality and business services, while supporting Sarawak’s ambition to attract more investments.
“For us in Sarawak, we rely on air bridge, air connectivity. If we can build the Batang Lupar Bridge, why can’t we build a bridge using aircraft? And the cost is not the only limitation. For us in Borneo, we have to invest
“So, if you want to assess the return, it has to be viewed from a macro perspective,” he said in his speech at the Sarawak Energy Vendor Excellence Awards (SEVEA) 2026 at Hikmah Exchange Event Centre here on Wednesday (Jul 8).
He said Sarawak’s approach mirrored the development strategies of Dubai and Singapore, where strong national airlines contributed to economic transformation.
“I once said that Dubai was not like it is today. Dubai developed because of Emirates. They gave strong backing to Emirates Airlines, and that is why Dubai transformed,” he said.
Abang Johari said AirBorneo’s role was not only to provide air services but also to ensure fare stability for Sarawakians, especially during peak travel periods.
“During Gawai season, other airlines raise fares to RM1,000, even economy class reaches RM800. The same happens during Hari Raya. But for AirBorneo, it is to stabilise the fare, and we are consistent throughout the year, RM375, with no increase or decrease.
“That will become a check to the other airlines,” he said.
Abang Johari also said Sarawak’s aviation strategy was part of a wider plan to develop Tanjung Embang into a regional economic hub, supported by a Transitioning Industrial Cluster (TIC) developed with the World Economic Forum (WEF).
“With WEF as our partner, then there is a leverage for us to convince foreign investment to come over to Tanjung Embang, supported by our aviation connectivity,” he said.
He added that Sarawak was also planning a new international airport in Tanjung Embang, which would serve as a key anchor to push the state’s economy to a higher level.
“In other words, that enclave will become an anchor for us to push our economy to a higher level. Beyond 2030,” he said.
