KUCHING: The launch of AirBorneo’s inaugural Kuching-Kuala Lumpur flight is a special gift for Sarawakians ahead of Sarawak Day, marking the realisation of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s vision of establishing the state’s own airline.
State Secretary and AirBorneo Chairman Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki said the milestone was not only a historic achievement for Sarawak but also a reflection of the Premier’s aspiration, vision and commitment to strengthening the state’s air connectivity.
He described AirBorneo as the Premier’s “brainchild” which had now transformed from an idea into a reality and a source of pride for all Sarawakians.
“This is your brainchild, and today, we are witnessing the realisation of your vision. What began as an aspiration has now taken flight as AirBorneo embarks on this historic journey,” he said in his welcoming speech during the launch of AirBorneo’s inaugural Kuching-Kuala Lumpur flight at Kuching International Airport today.
Abu Bakar said the achievement was especially meaningful as Sarawak was only two days away from celebrating Sarawak Day, describing the milestone as a special gift for the people of the state, including leaders and previous generations of Sarawakians who had fought, sacrificed and laid the foundations for Sarawak’s progress and prosperity.
“The launch of AirBorneo’s inaugural flight to Kuala Lumpur today is a very meaningful and historic achievement for all of us, the children of Sarawak,” he said.
He said the Board of Directors, management team and employees of AirBorneo were honoured and humbled to be entrusted with the responsibility of realising the aspiration of establishing the airline and bringing the state to this historic moment.
Abu Bakar said the achievement also demonstrated Sarawak’s ability to develop and operate an aviation industry that was highly technical and complex.
“For me, this achievement is highly significant because it proves Sarawak’s involvement and capability in developing and managing such a technical and complex industry.
“It demonstrates that Sarawak has the capability and capacity to build and operate institutions of national significance,” he said.
He said the historic milestone was also a testament to Abang Johari’s courage, strategic foresight and unwavering belief that stronger air connectivity was fundamental to Sarawak’s future growth, development and prosperity.
Abu Bakar said the Premier recognised the challenges faced by Sarawakians who had long dealt with high and fluctuating airfares when travelling to Kuala Lumpur.
“He understood that for a state like Sarawak, aviation connectivity is not a luxury. It is an economic lifeline, a catalyst for social equity and a fundamental need for our people,” he said.
He said this vision was reflected through AirBorneo’s ethos, “Borneo For You”, which represented the airline’s commitment to serving the people, strengthening the economy and bringing Sarawak closer to the rest of Malaysia and the wider world.
Abu Bakar added that AirBorneo had already played a role in helping stabilise airfares on the Kuching-Kuala Lumpur route following the introduction of its flat fare structure.
“Our presence in the market is not merely about providing another choice of airline, but also about bringing greater stability and value to air travellers,” he said.
He also expressed appreciation to Abang Johari for entrusting AirBorneo with the responsibility of managing the important state asset and serving the people.
Meanwhile, Abu Bakar said the inaugural commercial flight marked a new chapter in Sarawak’s connectivity journey and AirBorneo’s entry into the commercial jet era with the introduction of two wet-leased Boeing 737-800 aircraft.
He said the milestone was a powerful demonstration of Sarawak’s capacity to turn bold and strategic visions into tangible realities.
He added that AirBorneo would serve as “The Bridge That Connects the Community” by creating opportunities and strengthening ties among communities.
Whether for students pursuing higher education, families returning home for celebrations such as Gawai, Hari Raya and Chinese New Year, workers travelling between East and West Malaysia, entrepreneurs expanding into new markets, or visitors discovering Sarawak, he said the airline would help bring people closer together.
Abu Bakar also thanked the Ministry of Transport Sarawak, Ministry of Transport Malaysia, Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM), Malaysia Airports, as well as federal and state agencies and strategic partners for their support in making the inaugural flight possible.
He acknowledged the contributions of pilots, cabin crew, engineers, ground operations teams, customer service personnel and all staff working behind the scenes, saying their professionalism and commitment towards public safety were crucial in building confidence and trust among passengers.
Looking ahead, Abu Bakar acknowledged that AirBorneo’s journey would come with greater challenges but expressed confidence that the airline would continue to grow, expand its wings and achieve greater success.
“We remain committed to continuously improving our services based on your feedback. We assure you of our unwavering commitment to making AirBorneo an airline that all Sarawakians can be proud of,” he said.
Abu Bakar reiterated the Board’s commitment to ensuring AirBorneo continues to grow as a safe, trusted airline that prioritises the interests of the community.
