KUCHING: The Kuching City South Council (MBKS) will study the feasibility of establishing direct flights between Sarawak and its friendship cities in China.
Mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng said the matter was one of the key discussions during the Malaysia’s Sarawak-China Cooperation Forum and Friendship Cities Roundtable Meeting held at Imperial Hotel here today.
“During the meeting, I highlighted Sarawak’s efforts to launch its own airline. And in China, many provinces already operate their own airlines.
“Therefore, this could provide an opportunity for collaboration on sustainable routes that benefit both sides,” he told reporters after the meeting which were also attended by representatives of the council’s friendship cities.
Wee further said the council will act as a one-stop centre to facilitate inquiries and drive initiatives forward.
He said Sarawak currently has over 30 friendship cities being established, most of which are in China.
“The friendship cities ties are not only between MBKS but also with China Cooperation Forum and Friendship Cities Roundtable Meeting (MPP), and councils in Sibu and Miri.
“So, we treat these Sarawak’s friendship cities, working together to leverage opportunities such as technology exchange, IT collaboration, tourism, and economic growth,” he added.
Later, in a joint statement after the meeting, the friendship cities reaffirmed their commitment to fostering strong partnership in areas such as economic development, cultural exchange, and tourism promotion, and working hand in hand to create a sustainable and prosperous future.
Among the key areas of collaboration are strengthening trade, investment, and technology exchange; collaborating on the development of green and smart infrastructure projects; encouraging student exchange programmes and academic partnerships; and promoting cultural and natural tourism assets, supporting the growth of creative industries, and integrating economic and cultural advancements for mutual benefit.
The statement said the declaration reflects the shared vision of sustainable growth and mutual prosperity.
“Through collaboration, we aim to build inclusive, resilient, and thriving communities for the benefit of all.”
