KUCHING: AirAsia launched its inaugural direct flight between Pontianak and Kuching yesterday, re-establishing the air link between the two cities with a daily service after an absence of nearly five years.
Flight AK1782 from Pontianak landed at Kuching International Airport at 11 am, where passengers were greeted with cultural performances.
Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industries, and Performing Arts, Datuk Snowdan Lawan, stated that the new service would enhance Sarawak’s tourism industry, particularly in the field of medical tourism.
“After five years without flights from Pontianak, this daily service will assist us in achieving our target of five million visitors this year.
“That is why we are eagerly anticipating this connection. This morning’s flight to Pontianak was fully booked, and the return flight to Kuching is also almost at full capacity,” he informed reporters after welcoming passengers on the inaugural flight.
Snowdan was accompanied by NURAMalaysia’s Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Captain Fareh Mazputra, Sarawak Tourism Board’s CEO Sharzede Salleh Askor, along with representatives from Malaysia Airports, government agencies, and private hospitals.
He also expressed gratitude to the Indonesian government for restoring Pontianak’s international status, which allowed AirAsia to recommence services from the city.
“We extend our thanks to the Indonesian government for reopening this gateway. Many who previously travelled by road are now opting to fly again, which is a positive sign,” he remarked.
These flights marked the first international service departing from Supadio Airport, Pontianak, since its international status was reinstated in June this year.
Meanwhile, passengers on the inaugural Kuching–Pontianak flight (AK1781) were bid farewell by Transport Minister, Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin, who subsequently embarked on an official visit to West Kalimantan.
Sharzede described the re-established link as timely for the state.
“This route will not only make it more convenient for our neighbours in West Kalimantan to travel for leisure, medical, education, and business purposes, but will also further bolster our position as the gateway to Borneo.
“With international arrivals to Sarawak steadily increasing this year, this connectivity will aid in attracting more visitors from Pontianak and beyond, while showcasing our rich culture, pristine nature, and unique adventure offerings.
“We eagerly anticipate building on this momentum as we gear up for Visit Malaysia Year 2026,” she stated.
AirAsia now connects Malaysia to 18 destinations in Indonesia, with Banjarmasin set to be included from Kuala Lumpur starting on 20th October 2025.
Fareh mentioned that Indonesia remained one of the airline’s key markets, highlighting the success of recent route inaugurations in Palembang and other cities.
“We take pride in reconnecting Pontianak with both Kuching and Kuala Lumpur. These routes not only offer greater convenience for our guests but also create more opportunities for tourism and business between Malaysia and Indonesia.
“With our extensive network and competitive fares, AirAsia is dedicated to strengthening connections between neighbouring countries and fostering regional growth,” he concluded.
