KUALA LUMPUR: The Sarawak Government, through AirBorneo Holdings Sdn Bhd, today (Dec. 31) officially finalised the acquisition of MASwings Sdn Bhd, with the takeover effective from January 1, 2026.
The acquisition, by a fully government-owned entity, transfers full legal and operational responsibility of MASwings to AirBorneo, marking a significant milestone in the state’s aviation sector.
Sarawak State Secretary, Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, who is also AirBorneo Chairman, expressed his gratitude to Khazanah and the Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) for their crucial support and cooperation throughout the process.
“While this closes a phase in MASwings’ acquisition, it does not mark the end of collaboration between the parties involved. We firmly believe that partnership is key in aviation and other sectors to face challenges together,” he said during the MASwings Acquisition Finalisation Ceremony in the capital today as reported by TVS.
Also present at the event were Sarawak State Finance Secretary, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Lizozman Wan Omar; MAG Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer, Bryan Foong Chee Yeong; and MASwings Chief Operating Officer, Suresh Singam.
Abu Bakar said the acquisition opens a new chapter for regional aviation, enhancing connectivity and improving air services for the people of Sarawak.
AirBorneo confirmed that the MASwings brand will continue during the initial transition before gradually adopting the AirBorneo identity.
The move aligns with the state government’s strategic goal to strengthen air links to rural and interior areas.
“This step also supports Sarawak’s social and economic development agenda, laying a strong foundation for the airline’s next growth phase under the AirBorneo brand,” the statement read.
The acquisition was formalised through a Sales and Purchase Agreement signed between MAG and the Sarawak Government on February 12, 2025, paving the way for a new era in the region’s aviation industry.
