SERIAN: Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has suggested holding a competition to design the livery for AirBorneo, Sarawak’s state-owned airline.
He noted that following the announcement of the AirBorneo, social media has been buzzing with creative designs, including AI-generated images, showcasing various color schemes envisioned for the aircraft.
“I’ve seen all sorts of designs on social media—some are red, some are black, and some are a mix of colors. They all look stunning.
“Perhaps we should hold a competition to let the people share their ideas on how our aircraft should look,” he said.
He said this when officiating the launching of the Sarawak Basic Necessities Assistance (Sumbangan Keperluan Asas Sarawak, SKAS) at the Serian Conference Centre today.
Abang Johari, who also serves as the Minister of Finance and New Economy, asserted that the airline’s acquisition would also enable more affordable airfares, particularly for Sarawakian students studying outside the state.
“With our strong economy, we want better connectivity with reasonable ticket prices. That way, we can help our people and ensure our children can return home.
“Every year, during the Lan Berambeh Anak Sarawak event, students studying far away raise concerns about expensive tickets. Sometimes, flights are fully booked, making travel difficult.
“That’s why I sought ways to assist our students while also boosting tourism. Now that we have our own airline, we can achieve this,” he added.
He reiterated that the takeover of MASWings was a strategic move to ensure Sarawak has an airline that truly serves the state’s needs and economic interests.
“We must build a solid business model. InshaAllah, we have developed one, but I cannot disclose it just yet—otherwise, other companies might take advantage of our strategy,” he said.
Also present were Deputy Premiers Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas and Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian; Sarawak State Legislative Assembly Speaker Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nasar; State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki; Education, Innovation and Talent Development Minister Datuk Seri Roland Sagah Wee Inn; and Minister in the Premier’s Department Datuk Seri John Sikie Tayai.
