KUCHING – AirBorneo, Sarawak’s newly established state-owned airline, has announced a strategic partnership with IBM Malaysia Sdn Bhd, supported by SALIHIN Digital, to introduce advanced artificial intelligence solutions across its operations. The collaboration is part of the airline’s preparations for its commercial launch in 2026.
The airline is positioning itself as a modern, full-service carrier with a strong emphasis on digital transformation. By adopting an integrated digital architecture, AirBorneo aims to streamline operations, enhance decision-making, and deliver improved customer experiences from the outset.
Chief Executive Officer Megat Ardian explained that the airline’s vision is to redefine regional connectivity and set new standards in aviation.
“As we gear up for our jet operations in July 2026, our vision is to deliver a seamless travel experience and strengthen regional connectivity to Sabah and Sarawak, pioneering innovations that redefine the nation’s aviation landscape. Through our collaboration with IBM and SALIHIN Digital, we’re harnessing the power of AI from intelligent customer interactions to optimised flight operations. We are setting a new benchmark for the future of aviation,” he said.
The partnership will see AirBorneo implement IBM webMethods Hybrid Integration and IBM Cloud Pak for Integration, technologies designed to automate and connect critical business processes.
This approach will provide real-time visibility, secure data exchange, and greater agility across the airline’s systems, ensuring smooth coordination between customer-facing services and back-end operations.
Dickson Woo, Country General Manager and Technology Leader at IBM Malaysia, highlighted the importance of digital foundations in building a world-class airline.
“Building a world-class airline takes more than aircraft and infrastructure; it requires an intelligent digital foundation that anticipates passenger needs, streamlines operations, and empowers its people. The collaboration between IBM and AirBorneo underscores our shared commitment to placing AI at the core of AirBorneo’s transformation, shaping the future of aviation through innovation and intelligence,” he said.
Meanwhile, Mohd Sheeril Azri, Director of Sustainability and Modern Governance Solutions at SALIHIN Digital, emphasised the strength of collaboration.
“Our partnership exemplifies the strength of collaboration in driving meaningful transformation. By combining SALIHIN’s industry expertise with IBM’s cutting-edge technology, we’ve demonstrated how a shared vision and strong partnership can accelerate AirBorneo’s transformation journey, reaffirming that the sky is the limit when you partner with someone you can trust,” he noted.
The airline’s development is closely tied to Sarawak’s broader economic ambitions. The state government has set a target to double its economy from RM136 billion to RM282 billion, with aviation expected to play a pivotal role in boosting connectivity, investment, and tourism.
AirBorneo’s entry into the market is seen as a catalyst for growth, supporting Sarawak’s digital economy and reinforcing its position as a hub for innovation and sustainability.
By strengthening air links, Sarawak hopes to accelerate prosperity, foster inclusivity, and advance environmental sustainability. The initiative reflects the state’s commitment to balanced, long-term development, ensuring that both urban and rural communities benefit from improved access and opportunities.
IBM, a global leader in hybrid cloud and AI solutions, brings extensive expertise to the collaboration. With operations in more than 175 countries, IBM supports thousands of government and corporate clients in sectors such as finance, telecommunications, and healthcare.
Its innovations in AI, quantum computing, and industry-specific cloud solutions are expected to provide AirBorneo with a competitive edge as it prepares to enter the aviation market.
AirBorneo’s partnership with IBM and SALIHIN Digital marks a significant step in Sarawak’s aviation journey, combining technology, sustainability, and regional ambition to create a future-ready airline.
