KUCHING: Local travellers say AirBorneo’s RM375 “Sarawakku Sayang” promotional fare offers better value than advertised low-cost fares, citing its all-inclusive pricing and greater cost transparency.
The reactions follow recent social media discussions comparing AirBorneo’s promotional fare with lower headline prices offered by low-cost carriers, with many travellers arguing that such comparisons overlook the actual cost of flying once additional charges are included.
They said AirBorneo’s promotional fare functions as a full-service experience, meaning vital additions like baggage, seat choices, and meals are entirely covered from the get-go.
Ahmad Farhan Mohd Salihudin, 36, whose wife is Sarawakian, frequently travels with his family between Kuching and his hometown in Peninsular Malaysia during school holidays and festive seasons such as Hari Raya.
He said AirBorneo’s all-inclusive pricing model makes it easier for his family of four to budget for travel, particularly during peak seasons when airfares are typically higher.
“This fare offers better overall value compared with budget airlines, where additional charges can quickly increase the final ticket price.
“We know exactly how much we need to set aside without worrying about extra charges for baggage, meals or other fees,” he told Sarawak Tribune.
Chulla Anders Ningkan, 30, said consumers should compare the final amount paid instead of relying on headline fares alone, describing it as a matter of comparing like with like.
“A low-cost airline usually advertises only the base fare without checked baggage or meals, while AirBorneo’s fare already includes 23kg of checked baggage and in-flight meal.
“What consumers should compare is the final price they actually pay. Only then can we determine which airline offers better value,” he said, adding that AirBorneo’s fare structure is more comparable to that of Malaysia Airlines than a low-cost carrier.
For many Sarawakians, the included baggage allowance is also a practical advantage when travelling between the state and Peninsular Malaysia.
Nur Mahfuzah Mataha, 36, said travellers using budget airlines are often surprised by the final amount payable after optional add-ons are selected, whereas AirBorneo’s fare is transparent from the beginning.
“If you are a Sarawakian, that 23kg is not just for clothes. It is space to bring home Gardenia bread, Beryl’s chocolates, IKEA items and all the things family members ask us to buy whenever we go to Kuala Lumpur,” she quipped.
She said the all-inclusive fare offers better value, especially for families and frequent travellers who would otherwise pay extra for checked baggage and other essential services.
Beyond the fare itself, AirBorneo’s launch has also generated a sense of pride among Sarawakians, who see the airline as another milestone in the state’s development.
Ayu Jelita, 45, said she was proud to see Sarawak establish its own airline and believed the inclusive fare structure would benefit many travellers.
“As a Sarawakian, I feel proud that the state now has its own airline.
“With checked baggage, cabin baggage and complimentary meals already included, the fare is worthwhile and cost-effective. Travellers no longer have to worry about paying hundreds of ringgit more after adding essential services,” she added.
AirBorneo will operate twice-daily Kuching-Kuala Lumpur services via Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 1 beginning July 20, with the all-inclusive “Sarawakku Sayang” economy fare starting at RM375 one-way, and the business class fare priced at RM736 one-way.
