KUCHING: Sarawak’s very own airline, AirBorneo, is being developed not as a profit-driven venture but as a public service bridge, aimed at making air travel affordable and stabilising fares for residents.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the airline would connect the state’s ‘island’ economy with the outside world, ensuring that residents and visitors have reliable and reasonably priced air travel, particularly during peak periods such as festive seasons.
“AirBorneo is not about making profit. Its purpose is to provide a bridge, just like how we build roads and bridges.
“The fare will be calculated based on operational costs per seat to ensure it is affordable. That is enough,” he said during the townhall session in conjunction with the ninth anniversary of the state administration at Hikmah Exchange here on Tuesday (Jan 13).
The Premier noted that airfares fluctuate dramatically during high-demand periods.
“Now, for example, during Hari Raya or Chinese New Year, the fare can double because of demand.
“We want to stabilise that so everyone can travel without worrying about price spikes,” he added.
Highlighting the state’s people-first approach, Abang Johari said AirBorneo prioritises the welfare of Sarawakians over commercial competition with existing airlines.
“Yes, other airlines may be worried about competition, but our first priority is the people. This is about service, not profit,” he emphasised.
He drew a parallel with healthcare, citing the need for a local cancer centre.
“A cancer patient currently has to go to Kuala Lumpur, which is expensive for the whole family.
“That is why we are building a cancer centre here in Sarawak, so it can serve both Sarawak and Sabah residents,” he explained.
The Premier also stressed that Sarawak is willing to invest first using state funds for essential projects, demonstrating a proactive approach in serving its residents. Federal cooperation, he said, is welcomed but not a precondition.
“Even when the federal government helps, Sarawak is ready to pay first to get things done for the people,” he said, citing collaboration on national projects such as co-sponsoring the SEA Games.
Abang Johari said AirBorneo reflects a broader vision of Sarawak as a connected, self-reliant, and forward-looking state, capable of meeting the needs of its people while engaging with the wider ASEAN and international community.
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