Sarawak to continue expanding AirBorneo network, strengthening connectivity

Miri, Oct 30 — Sarawak remains committed to expanding AirBorneo's flight network, enhancing airport infrastructure, and fortifying air connectivity, as part of its strategy to bolster the state's aviation sector. Speaking at the ministry's engagement session and appreciation dinner to celebrate the seventh anniversary of AirBorneo, Caretaker Minister of Transport Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin underscored aviation's critical importance to Sarawak due to its expansive landmass and scattered rural communities.

He elaborated, "For numerous individuals, particularly those residing in the interior, aviation serves as a vital link connecting them to healthcare, education, economic prospects, and cherished ones."

Lee highlighted that the establishment of AirBorneo marked a significant milestone in Sarawak's aviation evolution over the past seven years. He further elaborated, "The creation of AirBorneo transcends the ownership of a single airline. It embodies Sarawak's commitment to preserving crucial rural air services while steadily broadening domestic and international connectivity."

Lee also projected that the airline would foster opportunities in tourism, trade, investment, and employment, notably in aircraft maintenance, engineering, and aviation training.

In terms of airport infrastructure, Lee emphasized the proposed upgrade of Miri Airport, projected to incur a cost of RM445 million. This initiative aims to augment terminal capacity, enhance passenger amenities, and solidify Miri's role as a pivotal hub for northern Sarawak, tourism, trade, and the oil and gas sector. Other envisioned developments encompass runway extensions for Bario and Limbang, the proposed New Lawas Airport, and infrastructure improvements in Ba Kelalan and Long Banga.

The feasibility study for the proposed New Kuching International Airport at Tanjung Embang is underway, with a focus on analyzing its long-term needs and development potential.

Rural Air Services (RAS) remains indispensable to communities in remote locales, including Bario, Ba Kelalan, Long Seridan, and Long Akah. Lee clarified, "Aviation in rural regions cannot solely be evaluated based on commercial returns. Its genuine value lies in facilitating accessibility, promoting social integration, and guaranteeing that interior communities do not fall behind in Sarawak's advancement."

The ministry reaffirmed its dedication to collaborating with the Federal Ministry of Transport, Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia, Malaysia Airports, and the rural air service operator to tackle operational challenges and preserve essential air connectivity.

Looking forward, Lee expressed Sarawak's aspiration to cultivate its aviation workforce and investigate prospects in drone technology and sustainable aviation. He stated, "Our ultimate goal transcends merely enhancing airports and augmenting the frequency of flights. We aspire to foster a comprehensive and sustainable aviation ecosystem comprising airlines, airports, aerospace industries, aviation training, logistics, and emerging technologies."

Furthermore, Lee underscored the state's intention to inspire more Sarawakians to embark on careers in aviation, encompassing vocations such as pilots, aircraft maintenance engineers, aviation technicians, and aerospace professionals.