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KUCHING: Sarawak’s newly launched airline, AirBorneo, is set to play a vital role in the state’s economic and tourism development. Beyond providing transportation, AirBorneo is committed to promoting Sarawak as a prime destination for tourists and offering affordable travel for locals and visitors alike.
Sarawak’s Minister of Tourism, Creative Industries, and Performing Arts, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, emphasized that AirBorneo is not just a business venture but a strategic move to develop Sarawak’s economy and tourism industry.
“Our main aim is not profit in the early years but to break even within the first five years. Even without immediate profits, what’s important is that we don’t operate at a loss,” said Datuk Seri Abdul Karim at the Ministry’s Integrity Day 2025, held at Hilton Hotel, Kuching.
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Strategic Control and Growth
With the launch of AirBorneo, Sarawak gains full control over its route planning and marketing strategies, unlike before, when it relied heavily on external airlines. This independence will allow the state to improve existing routes and open new ones, focusing on destinations that benefit Sarawak’s growth.
Datuk Seri Abdul Karim expressed confidence that AirBorneo will boost tourist arrivals, driving economic activity in the state. The Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) and other agencies will work closely with the airline to support these efforts.
“This is not about competition with existing airlines. It’s about creating healthy competition. More airlines mean better services and more competitive fares for passengers,” he explained.
Kuching as the Main Aviation Hub
Kuching will serve as AirBorneo’s primary hub, creating job opportunities in aviation engineering, aircraft maintenance, and other related fields. The economic spillover is expected to be significant, with a growing demand for skilled workers in the aviation sector.
AirBorneo’s model is similar to successful national carriers such as Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, and Emirates, which are backed by strong government support.
With Sarawak’s financially stable government behind it, AirBorneo is expected to be a game-changer, elevating Sarawak’s aviation industry and enhancing connectivity within the region.
Key Attendees and Support
Among those present at the event were Sarawak Deputy Ministers Dato’ Tan Siew Yaw and Dato’ Snowdan Lawang, Permanent Secretary Dato’ Serina, and Sarawak Tourism Board CEO Shaza. – UKAS EDITION