KUCHING: Visitors to Sarawak could soon enjoy seamless airport to hotel journeys through a proposed integrated travel package combining AirBorneo flights with the Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) system.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said he had proposed a collaboration between AirBorneo and the Kuching Urban Transportation System (KUTS) to provide travellers with a single ticket covering both their flight and ART journey.
“I have proposed a collaborative approach between AirBorneo and KUTS, where tourists can purchase a single package combining the AirBorneo fare with the ART fare to their destination,” he told reporters after the Station Naming Rights Signing Ceremony between Sarawak Metro Sdn Bhd and IBRACO Berhad here today.
He explained that travellers arriving in Kuching would be able to continue directly to hotels, hospitals and other destinations served by the ART network, many of which are located near ART stations.
Citing the example of a passenger travelling from Kuala Lumpur, Abang Johari said the airfare could be bundled with the ART fare, allowing visitors to complete their journey without having to arrange separate transport upon arrival.
The Premier said the proposal is aimed at making travel more convenient while enhancing passenger safety.
He said ART vehicles would be equipped with surveillance cameras linked to the Operation Control Centre at the Rembus Depot, enabling passenger journeys to be monitored in real time.
“Safety is important because the ART will have cameras monitored by the control centre in Rembus so that passengers are protected,” he said.
Besides improving safety, the integrated package would also provide visitors with greater peace of mind by offering transparent transport costs from the start of their journey.
“The important thing is there is no cheating. You get value for your money,” he said.
Abang Johari said the proposal is currently being considered as part of efforts to integrate Sarawak’s aviation and public transport systems, creating a smoother travel experience for visitors while supporting the state’s tourism industry.
He added that affordable ART fares would complement the initiative, noting that the service would be heavily subsidised by the government to ensure it remains accessible to both residents and tourists.
