BY NATASHA JEE & KAREN MASING
KUCHING: During the transition period of the full acquisition and ownership of MASwings’ operations, the Sarawak government will conduct a comprehensive study on the need for additional aircraft and the best strategies to strengthen AirBorneo’s position in the domestic aviation industry.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said that the operational transition process is expected to take around 12 to 18 months to ensure that existing services remain uninterrupted.
For now, MASwings will continue to operate as usual under the management of Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG).
“The first step we will take after acquiring AirBorneo is changing its livery, which refers to the design and colours on the exterior of the aircraft.
“Currently, MASwings uses green as its primary colour. The state government plans to change this to colours that are more closely associated with and reflective of Sarawak’s identity,” he said.
He said this in a press conference after the signing ceremony of the Sales and Purchase Agreement (SPA) between the Sarawak government and Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) for the acquisition of MASwings at a leading hotel here on Wednesday.
On another note, Abang Johari stated that the transaction price of the acquisition could not be disclosed due to commercial considerations with other airlines such as Malaysia Airlines, Batik Air, and AirAsia.
He further explained that full ownership would allow the state government to better plan its operational strategy, including the purchase of new aircraft to meet travel demands.
“Our planning will be gradual. During this transition period, we will assess the need to add assets because we want to provide direct flights to Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, and Jakarta.
“At present, we are prioritising flights to Jakarta to tap into the potential of medical tourism, as the travel time is only about one hour and 30 minutes,” he said.
Additionally, he emphasised that the acquisition includes all MASwings employees and assets, including new ATR aircraft equipped with modern cabin configurations.
“This is a very good deal. We are acquiring assets without liabilities, and everything is brand new. It is a highly beneficial agreement for Sarawak,” he added.
When asked about the hiring of expatriates, he said there might be a possibility.
“If there is a need to have expatriates, we will look into it. But our priority remains Sarawakian talent. I have worked in the aviation industry before, so I understand its complexity.
“From engineering and crew training to marketing and pilot management, everything requires a well-planned strategy,” he explained.
He further pointed out that one of the main challenges would be attracting experienced aviation professionals, especially pilots, as many Malaysian pilots are currently working in the Middle East due to higher salaries and better benefits.
Earlier, he also expressed his gratitude to Federal Minister of Transport Anthony Loke for his support in facilitating the discussion between the federal and state governments where collaborations between the two governments has led to the successful proposal for Sarawak to take over MASwings, of which is now known as AirBorneo.
