MIRI: Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP) believes the state government’s intention to set up a boutique airline will bolster development in Sarawak.
Its Youth Publicity and Information Secretary, Kelvin Hii, on Tuesday hoped the federal cabinet will approve of the plan.
“It is reported that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has agreed in principle to the establishment of a new airline in Sarawak,” he said, hoping its establishment will help mitigate the cost of airfare especially during festive seasons.
“Sarawak and West Malaysia have always relied on air routes to connect with each other as there are no other transportation options available, therefore the aviation industry in Sarawak needs to be more developed in order to safeguard the interests of Sarawakians,” he said.
“Sarawak is a place with rich tourism and culture, and is currently developing, making it a place where many businesses can invest, we have many natural attractions, such as rich pristine forests and coastal cities, making it an attractive destination for tourism.
“In addition, Sarawak has many natural resources and land that can be developed, allowing for many large corporations to set up factories and invest.
“However, unfortunately, air travel is currently the only way to connect Sarawak to the rest of Asia. Therefore, improving the number and quality of flights is an important aspect of Sarawak’s development,” Hii explained.
He said, if Sarawak has its own airline, it will ensure the prices of flights are fair for Sarawakians.
“For example, flights from Sibu to Kuala Lumpur have always been very expensive, which is unfair to the people of Sibu. The establishment of a Sarawak-owned airline will ensure that Sarawakians can afford reasonable airfares,” he disclosed.
In addition, Hii called for more international flights to neighbouring countries such as Indonesia, China, Thailand, and Taiwan, which will increase the number of tourists to Sarawak.
At the same time, he added, this will provide more bilateral commercial opportunities for Sarawak.
“Currently, there are many opportunities for cooperation between Sarawak and Singapore because of the direct flights between the two places. If a boutique airline is established in Sarawak, it is believed that it will be a big step forward for Sarawak’s development,” he said.
The unity government, led by Anwar , should pay more attention to the rights and interests of the people of Sarawak.
“SUPP is now a member of the unity government and has always been working hard to fight for the interests of Sarawakians, ensuring that Sarawak’s development is no longer neglected,” he added.
