KUCHING — Sarawak’s new state-owned airline, AirBorneo, is expected to take to the skies next month as the acquisition of MASwings Sdn Bhd reaches its final stage. The move marks a major step in the state’s long-term plan to strengthen regional air connectivity while building a homegrown aviation ecosystem.
State Transport Minister Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin confirmed that AirBorneo will begin operations immediately after the takeover is completed by Dec 31. The airline will first operate the existing rural air services (RAS) covering Sarawak, Sabah and Labuan. This ensures continuity for rural communities that rely on regular flights for travel, essential supplies and medical access.
Speaking to reporters after his winding-up speech in the Sarawak Legislative Assembly on Tuesday (Dec 2), Lee said two aircraft — an ATR 72-500 and a Twin Otter — will fly with AirBorneo’s new logo and livery as early as next month. The rest of the fleet will adopt the new livery in phases over the next six months.
“We will change the livery of the remaining aircraft in phases. This is part of our smooth transition plan,” he said.
Lee also assured that all MASwings staff will be absorbed into AirBorneo. This guarantees a stable workforce and avoids operational disruptions during the handover.
“We want to ensure no disruption, so that the moment we take over, we can continue operating the RAS as usual,” he said.
Looking ahead, AirBorneo has ambitions beyond rural routes. Lee revealed that the airline is planning to expand to key regional destinations, including Kuala Lumpur, by the end of next year. The expansion will depend on aircraft availability and necessary approvals from aviation regulators.
Earlier in the assembly, Lee highlighted the significance of AirBorneo’s newly launched “Wings of Unity” logo and its tagline, “Borneo for You,” which were unveiled on Aug 21. He said both elements symbolise Sarawak’s commitment to serve its people while strengthening Borneo-wide connectivity.
Responding to questions from Joseph Chieng (GPS-Bukit Assek) regarding Sibu’s connectivity, Lee said AirBorneo will gradually enhance Sibu’s links to major cities in Sarawak, Sabah and Kuala Lumpur. Plans for international routes are also being studied, subject to demand and fleet capacity.
“AirBorneo is committed to offering competitive airfares compared with existing airlines. We want Sarawakians, including those travelling to and from Sibu, to have access to affordable, reliable and improved air travel options,” he said.
Lee also reported strong growth in Sarawak’s aviation sector. The state recorded 112,625 aircraft movements and 9.07 million passengers up to the third quarter of this year, representing a 15% rise compared to the same period last year.
Currently, Sarawak receives 51 weekly international flights alongside an average of 551 weekly domestic flights. International links continue to strengthen, with 9Air’s Haikou–Kuching scheduled charter service already launched and Loong Air’s Shenzhen–Kuching charter service set to begin soon.
“My ministry will continue to work closely with airlines and partner agencies to secure more direct international routes, enhancing Sarawak’s global connectivity and expanding economic opportunities for the state,” he said.
