SINGAPORE — Sarawak is taking another step toward expanding its international connectivity and trade links by planning direct flights between Kuching and Singapore under its new airline, Air Borneo.
Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg said the move aims to strengthen the state’s tourism, logistics, and domestic trade sectors, with strong support from the Singapore Trade and Tourism Office (STATOS).
“One of the areas we discussed with Singapore is cooperation in the tourism sector. That is why we have STATOS here. We hope the Singapore authorities will allow Air Borneo to land at the airport here soon,” he said.
The Premier was speaking to reporters after officiating the Sarawak Mega Fair 2025 held at the Suntec Convention and Exhibition Centre in Singapore on Wednesday.
Abang Zohari further revealed that Air Borneo will not only focus on passenger services but also enhance trade through cargo operations, especially for perishable goods such as seafood and fruits.
“We will use the ATR-72 aircraft as a refrigerated cargo plane. For example, fresh seafood and fruits can leave Sarawak at 6am and reach Singapore before 7.30am, ready for immediate sale at the market,” he explained.
He said the plan would create added value for Sarawak traders and farmers by allowing them to export their produce more efficiently and at competitive prices, strengthening the state’s position in the regional food supply chain.
At the same event, the Premier also reaffirmed Sarawak’s commitment to providing green energy to Singapore by 2032, in line with Malaysia and Indonesia’s initiative to develop undersea power transmission cables.
Among those present were Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, and Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian. Also in attendance were Sarawak State Assembly Speaker Tan Sri Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar, Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Sarawak State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, and STATOS Chairman Tan Sri Mohamad Ghan Modi Abdul Modi. – UKAS
