SEPANG – The Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Sarawak, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Haji Wan Junaidi bin Tuanku Jaafar, has completed an official journey to the federal capital aboard a commercial jet operated by the state-owned carrier, AirBorneo.
Accompanied by his consort, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Hajjah Fauziah binti Mohd Sanusi, the Governor touched down at Terminal 1 of Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) in the early afternoon, marking a notable milestone for the newly launched airline.
The delegation arrived at 14:50 hours on flight MY5005, operating a Boeing 737-800 aircraft. This journey represents the first time the state’s highest representative has utilised AirBorneo’s services since the carrier commenced its inaugural commercial operations on the Kuching-Kuala Lumpur route earlier this month.
The flight serves as a tangible demonstration of confidence in the airline’s operational readiness and service standards.
Traveling with the royal couple was the Secretary to the Sarawak Government and Chairman of AirBorneo, Yang Berhormat Datuk Amar Haji Mohamad Abu Bakar bin Marzuki, along with his spouse, Yang Berbahagia Dato Hajah Baduyah binti Haji Bujang.
Their presence highlighted the integral role of the state administration in overseeing and supporting the aviation venture’s strategic objectives.
Upon disembarkation, the party was received by a high-level welcoming committee. Leading the reception was Datu Hamdan bin Haji Sharbini, Director of the Sarawak Protocol, Ceremonies, and Events Management Unit (UPPANS).
He was joined by Encik Awang Supian Awang Daud, the Sarawak – Kuala Lumpur Liaison Officer, ensuring that state protocols were meticulously observed during the visit.
Representatives from the airport authority and the airline also formed part of the welcoming line. Encik Muhammad Hanizal Abdul Hamid, General Manager of Stakeholder Relations and Regulatory Affairs at Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad, greeted the guests alongside AirBorneo executives.
These included Mr Kevin Boey, responsible for Marketing and Communications, and Mr Vinod Krishnan, Head of Government Relations and Regulatory Affairs. Their attendance underscored the collaborative framework between the carrier, airport management, and state officials.
The arrival ceremony featured cultural elements that reflected Sarawak’s rich heritage. A performance organised by the Sarawak National Arts and Culture Department (JKKN) provided a vibrant welcome, showcasing traditional arts to the dignitaries.
This was followed by a solemn prayer reading led by Alfadhil Ustaz Haji Syed Mohd Rusydi bin Wan Yusup, the Religious and Research Officer from the Office of the Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak, invoking blessings for the safe travels and continued success of the state’s initiatives.
This event follows closely on the heels of the route’s official launch on 20 July 2026, which was attended by the Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Dr Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari. The introduction of commercial jet services by AirBorneo is viewed as a historic development for the state’s aviation sector.
It signifies a shift towards greater self-reliance in air transport and aims to strengthen connectivity between Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia.
The Governor’s decision to fly with the carrier is interpreted as a strong endorsement of the state government’s vision. By choosing AirBorneo for official travel, Tun Pehin Sri has signaled robust support for the aspiration to establish a proud, home-grown airline.
The initiative is designed to offer citizens more efficient, competitive, and high-quality travel options while fostering stronger domestic and international relations.
Looking ahead, the Governor expressed hopes that AirBorneo would continue to grow and thrive. He prayed for the airline’s success as a catalyst for Sarawak’s prosperity, contributing to the state’s reputation as a progressive and competitive region on both regional and global stages.
The expansion of air links is expected to bolster tourism, attract investment, and support broader economic development agendas.
As AirBorneo settles into its operational rhythm, the focus will remain on maintaining high safety standards and customer satisfaction.
The successful completion of this high-profile flight reinforces the belief that the airline can play a pivotal role in modernising Sarawak’s infrastructure and enhancing its connectivity with key economic hubs.
