SINGAPORE: Sarawak’s homegrown airline, AirBorneo, is set to play a key role in strengthening air connectivity between Sarawak and Singapore, says Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He said that the initiative, coordinated through the Sarawak Trade and Tourism Office Singapore (STATOS), aims to attract more international travellers to the state by increasing flight accessibility.
“One of the areas of cooperation we want to strengthen is tourism, which is why we set up STATOS in Singapore.
“They will grant landing rights to AirBorneo,” he told a press conference after officiating the Sarawak Mega Fair 2025 at Suntec City here today.
Abang Johari said that, apart from AirBorneo, additional flights by AirAsia and Scoot would also be arranged to broaden travel options and routes into Sarawak.
“Our business model is slightly different, but for now I cannot fully disclose it. What matters is that we make it easier for tourists to come.
“We are on an island, and of course, people cannot swim to Sarawak. We must provide a bridge – and flights are that bridge,” he added.
Abang Johari asserted that cooperation extended beyond tourism to trade, with plans for AirBorneo to operate customised ATR-180 cargo planes equipped with refrigeration units to deliver fresh produce from Sarawak to Singapore.
He noted that the modified aircraft would ensure seafood and fruits from Sarawak reached Singapore fresh and of high quality.
“As you know, we already supply fish to Singapore. AirBorneo will handle cargo services, where planes can depart at 6:00 am and the products will reach shops around 7:30 am.
“All this will be coordinated through STATOS, which serves as the main bridge between Sarawak and Singapore,” he said.
The Premier also stressed that enhancing air connectivity and trade links would not only promote Sarawak’s uniqueness to the world but also open opportunities for new investments in logistics, aviation, and sustainable tourism.
