KUCHING: Malaysia Airlines (MAS) will operate 24 additional flights between Kuala Lumpur and Sarawak during the Chinese New Year festive period to accommodate increased travel demand.
Minister for Transport Sarawak, Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin, said the additional flights comprise six services for the Kuala Lumpur-Kuching route, 16 for Kuala Lumpur-Sibu, and two for Kuala Lumpur-Miri, offering greater travel flexibility for Sarawakians returning home for the celebrations.
According to a press release issued by the Ministry of Transport Sarawak, the initiative was announced following a briefing by Malaysia Airlines Group (MAG) representatives on festive travel arrangements for the first quarter of 2026.
Lee said air travel remains the main mode of connectivity between East Malaysia and Peninsular Malaysia, adding that the ministry continues to engage airline operators ahead of major festive seasons to ensure sufficient flight capacity and reasonable fares.
“These festive periods are especially meaningful for families. As East Malaysia and Peninsular Malaysia are separated by the South China Sea, air travel remains the only practical means of connectivity.
“This is why, ahead of every major festive season, the Ministry of Transport Sarawak (MOTS) will engage with airline operators to request additional flights, so that Sarawakians can return home and celebrate with their families,” he said.
He added that MAS is offering a fixed all-in one-way fare of RM339 for flights to Sarawak for travel between Feb 11 and 23, providing greater certainty for passengers planning their festive journeys.
Flight frequencies are also expected to increase during the Hari Raya Aidilfitri period to meet anticipated passenger demand, particularly for travel between Peninsular Malaysia and Sarawak.
Lee said the ministry will continue working closely with airline operators, the MOTS and the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) to ensure adequate seat capacity during peak travel periods while maintaining affordable airfares.
Other airline operators are also expected to adjust their flight schedules in response to overall passenger demand.
During the briefing, MAG representatives also updated the minister on changes to the group’s senior management team effective Feb 1, 2026.
Lee expressed appreciation to MAG for its continued cooperation with the Sarawak Government in strengthening air connectivity to the state, particularly during major festive seasons.
