Latest news with #AirBorneo
Borneo Post
21 hours ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
Awang Tengah meets with Kalbar Governor to strengthen regional ties
Awang Tengah (third right) fields questions from the media in Pontianak. Ria Norsan is at right. PONTIANAK (July 30): A Sarawak delegation led by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hassan has met with West Kalimantan (Kalbar) Governor Drs H Ria Norsan here to strengthen regional ties. The pivotal meeting underscored Sarawak's commitment to deepening bilateral ties, attracting high-value investments, fostering innovation, and enhancing regional economic integration. During the meeting, Awang Tengah, who is Minister of International Trade, Industry and Investment, highlighted Sarawak's role as a regional leader in renewable energy and a hub for semiconductor and aerospace industries, emphasising the state's drive for high-value investments and innovation. The discussion also covered air connectivity, including the resumption of the Kuching-Pontianak flight this September, the Sarawak government's takeover of MASwings and its rebranding as AirBorneo, as well as the 2024 launch of the Singkawang-Kuching bus route. 'These initiatives aim to enhance regional connectivity, cross-border trade, tourism, and business linkages across Borneo and the wider Asean region,' said Awang Tengah. He also advocated for the expedition of trade normalisation at the border, including a proposal for a joint economic border committee for mutual development. 'Both sides expressed strong interest in enhancing people-to-people and business-to-business exchanges. 'The upcoming Kuching–Pontianak direct flights, starting Sept 12, 2025, are expected to significantly boost tourism and healthcare access,' he said. He added that the Sarawak government's initiative to establish a Trade and Tourism Office (Stato) in Pontianak further solidifies the state's commitment to long-term regional integration. The visit concluded with a mutual commitment to joint initiatives that will enhance connectivity, promote innovation, and drive sustainable economic progress for both Sarawak and Kalbar. Awang Tengah Ali Hasan H Ria Norsan Kalimantan Barat lead
Borneo Post
22-07-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Milestones: Sarawak's bold ascent by air, sea and financial power
Abang Johari (fourth left) witnessing the signing of the SPA between the Sarawak government and MAG on Feb 12, 2025, in Kuching. — Photo by Roystein Emmor KUCHING (July 22): Under Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg's leadership as Premier, Sarawak has made exceptional strides to steadily ascend as a key player in the economic, transport, and financial landscape not just in Malaysia but also globally. Here, we take a look at a few of Sarawak's major achievements since the anniversary of the state's independence last year. AirBorneo The high-profile launch of AirBorneo on February 12, following the acquisition of MASwings from the Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), has made Sarawak the first state in Malaysia to own an airline. AirBorneo is expected to launch full operations by next year, with services targeting domestic and regional routes across Southeast Asia, including Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Singapore, Jakarta, Hong Kong, and Japan. 'AirBorneo is poised to create a balance between connectivity, affordable fares and economic benefits. 'Operating as a full-service carrier (FSC), AirBorneo can significantly enhance the passengers' experiences through superior in-flight services. 'This will emphasise the regional prestige of Sarawak as a premium travel destination,' said Abang Johari said at the Sale and Purchase Agreement signing ceremony on Feb 12. According to media reports, some of the international destinations that AirBorneo is eyeing include Bangkok, Hong Kong, Jakarta, Seoul and Frankfurt as the airline aims to operate as a full-service carrier. The full acquisition of MASwings Sdn Bhd by AirBorneo Holdings Sdn Bhd is expected to be finalised by Dec 31 this year, with no changes to the current Rural Air Services (RAS) operations. During the transition period, AirBorneo is working closely with MAG to ensure a seamless handover and to obtain necessary regulatory approvals from the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM), the Malaysian Aviation Commission (Mavcom), the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA). The airline has established its headquarters in Kuching and begun recruiting key personnel. A public logo and livery design competition was launched to engage Sarawakians in shaping the airline's identity, The airline's development is closely tied to Sarawak's broader infrastructure ambitions. A new Kuching International Airport and a deep-sea port in Tanjung Embang are in the pipeline, and aimed at transforming Sarawak into a regional aviation and marine hub. Sarawak is now the largest shareholder of Affin Bank. Becoming biggest shareholder in Affin Bank On September 27, 2024, Sarawak became the largest shareholder in Affin Bank Berhad, acquiring a 31.25 per cent stake through its wholly owned subsidiary, SG Assetfin Holdings Sdn Bhd. This landmark move marked a pivotal shift in the state's financial landscape, positioning Sarawak not just as a stakeholder but as a strategic force in Malaysia's banking sector. Prior to the acquisition, Sarawak held a modest 4.81 percent stake in Affin Bank. The purchase of shares from Lembaga Tabung Angkatan Tentera (LTAT) and Boustead Holdings Berhad elevated the state's influence, enabling it to shape the bank's direction in alignment with Sarawak's Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030). The acquisition was not merely financial—it was deeply symbolic of Sarawak's growing autonomy and ambition. Abang Johari had emphasised that the decision was driven by the need to create a robust financial platform to support Sarawak's economic transformation. With Affin's extensive network and expertise, the state aims to unlock new opportunities, facilitate access to capital, and ignite entrepreneurial growth across sectors. Affin Bank's role in supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) is central to Sarawak's strategy. SMEs form the backbone of the state's economy, and Affin's suite of banking products, including trade finance and commercial lending, is expected to empower local businesses to scale and innovate. The acquisition also aligns with Sarawak's broader goal of diversifying its economy beyond natural resources. Strategic industries such as agro-based ventures, tourism, manufacturing, and green technology are poised to benefit from improved access to financing and tailored banking solutions. Affin Bank's expansion in Sarawak is already underway. As of early 2025, the bank operates eight branches across Kuching, Sibu, Bintulu, and Miri, with plans to open six more by July, bringing the total to 14. The Premier has also called for greater decentralization in banking operations, urging Affin to empower its Sarawak-based managers with loan approval authority. This move is intended to accelerate decision-making and ensure that local needs are addressed swiftly and effectively. On June 23, it was reported Affin Bank Berhad has been officially appointed to manage the Endowment Fund Sarawak (EFS) 2.0, a long-term savings initiative for newborns in the state. Affin Bank had also introduced the Kenyalang savings account for Sarawakians last in April. Account holders were given a special debit card bearing the hornbill graphic. Bintulu Port is a vital gateway for Sarawak's liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports and industrial cargo. Reclaiming Bintulu Port In a historic move to assert greater control over its maritime infrastructure, the Sarawak government initiated the acquisition of Bintulu Port from federal jurisdiction in early 2024. It marked a turning point in Sarawak's pursuit of economic autonomy and infrastructure governance under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63). The port, long managed by the federal Bintulu Port Authority (BPA), is a vital gateway for Sarawak's liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports and industrial cargo. The acquisition of Bintulu Port was deemed as a necessary step to streamline port operations and align them with Sarawak's development goals. Momentum accelerated in February 2024 when a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the federal Ministry of Transport and Sarawak's Ministry of Infrastructure and Port Development (MIPD). The MoU outlined the framework for transferring regulatory control and assets, including the repeal of the Bintulu Port Authority Act 1981 and the establishment of a new state-level authority. In July 2024, Parliament passed the Bintulu Port Authority (Dissolution) Bill and the Declaration of an Area in the Bintulu District to be a Federal Port (Repeal) Bill. These legislative milestones officially reclassified Bintulu Port as a state port, enabling Sarawak to govern it under the Port Authorities Ordinance 1961. Premier Abang Johari highlighted the economic significance of the acquisition, noting that Bintulu Port would play a central role in boosting Sarawak's commodities trade and export capacity. The launch of the Borneo Supply Base, designed to serve the petroleum industry, is expected to increase shipping activity and support the state's energy ambitions. The acquisition also includes a compensation agreement, with Sarawak set to pay the federal government for the transfer of port assets. This financial arrangement underscores the seriousness of the state's commitment to managing its infrastructure independently and responsibly. Looking ahead, Bintulu Port is poised to benefit from infrastructure upgrades and expanded services. The port will support bunkering for green fuels and serve as a terminal for LNG exports, aligning with Sarawak's push for sustainability and regional competitiveness. The port's transformation is part of a broader vision that includes the development of the Kuching Deep Water Port at Tanjung Embang, which will complement Bintulu's operations and position Sarawak as a maritime hub in Southeast Asia. The Sarawak government has ramped up staffing and budget allocations to ensure the port's successful integration into state systems. Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said in May this year the takeover of Bintulu Port from federal jurisdiction to Sarawak is currently in the final stages of negotiations and the transfer is expected to take place in 2025. He said, with the approval of the Sarawak Port Authority Ordinance in May 2024, the Sarawak government is now moving towards the operation of a single port authority, the Sarawak Port Authority, which will have regulatory jurisdiction over all port activities in Sarawak. The opening ceremony of SUKMA XXI in Kuching was a spectacular and memorable event. — Photo by Chimon Upon Sporting success, bigger aspirations Sarawakians also have much to celebrate in sports. The successful hosting of Malaysia Games (SUKMA XXI) in August 2024 showcased the state's sporting infrastructure and organizational capacity. This on-field triumph paved the way for Sarawak's upcoming role as host of the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in 2027. Sarawak clinched the overall championship for the first time in 30 years. With 76 gold, 55 silver, and 70 bronze medals, the host state edged out Federal Territory by a single gold, in a nail-biting finish that kept fans on edge until the final event. The Games were a showcase of rising stars. Swimmer Kelly Teo, just 18, won six golds and three other medals, earning RM94,250 in incentives from the state government. Shot putter Jonah Chang Rigan smashed the national record with a throw of 17.66 metres, while javelin thrower Ng Jing Xuan rewrote national record with a 45.12-metre launch. Beyond medals, SUKMA XXI was a triumph of technology and inclusivity. A dedicated mobile app provided real-time updates, athlete profiles, and live broadcasts—20 sports were streamed online, a first for SUKMA. State Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah had said Sarawak is set to host the highest number of sporting events at the SEA Games 2027, with 18 sports currently agreed upon He had also said the official opening ceremony of the SEA Games will take place in Kuching. Abang Johari Tun Openg Affin Bank AirBorneo lead sarawak day
Borneo Post
12-07-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Sarawak plans to develop Limbang's Gunung Buda into major international tourism destination
Gunung Buda is regarded as one of Limbang's most promising tourism assets, with strong potential to attract global visitors once it becomes more accessible through the ongoing SSLR works. – Utusan Borneo photo MIRI (July 12): The state government will work closely with the Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) to develop Gunung Buda into a prominent international tourism destination, said State Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah. Speaking at the BELIA GoBiz@Limbang 2025 programme at the Limbang Civic Centre today, he described Gunung Buda as a natural treasure of global significance, boasting unique geological and ecological features that can attract both domestic and international visitors. He noted that with the future development of road infrastructure and the eventual launch of Sarawak's own airline, AirBorneo, tourism programmes and promotional efforts for Gunung Buda can be carried out more effectively. 'I am well aware of Gunung Buda and recognise its natural value. We aim to elevate this treasure in Limbang just as we have done with attractions in Kuching, and sites like Niah and Mulu in Miri. 'For Limbang, this is our gem and, God willing, we will plan its development in coordination with the SFC, as such national parks fall under their jurisdiction,' he said. Abdul Karim added that once the area is gazetted and the necessary infrastructure is in place, particularly with future AirBorneo routes, Gunung Buda can be promoted as a tourism hub. Currently, road access to Gunung Buda is being developed under the Sabah-Sarawak Link Road (SSLR) project – an important initiative expected to open up the area to international tourism. Gunung Buda is regarded as one of Limbang's most promising tourism assets, with strong potential to attract global visitors once it becomes more accessible through the ongoing SSLR works. Located in the upper Medalam area of the Limbang division, Gunung Buda National Park is home to remarkable geological phenomena, including one of the world's largest known ceiling pendants – an 'anastomosis phreatic' formation. The area has long been recognised in scientific circles and has hosted American-led research expeditions for the past 22 years. Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah Gunung Buda lead limbang tourism
The Star
19-06-2025
- Business
- The Star
Sarawak takeover of MASwings set to realise tourism potential, says Abdul Karim
KUCHING: Sarawak's acquisition of MASwings Sdn Bhd to become state-owned carrier AirBorneo will significantly boost tourism through better connectivity, says Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah. The state Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister said AirBorneo reflected Sarawak's ambition to improve connectivity and strengthen its ambition to be a leading destination for regional and international travellers. "For too long, air connectivity has been a limiting factor in fully realising Sarawak's tourism potential," he said in an email interview. "With AirBorneo, we are changing that narrative. By transitioning from MASwings into a state-owned, full-service carrier, we are addressing long-standing connectivity gaps, particularly in underserved rural areas. "This allows us to open up the hidden gems of Sarawak, from the heart of the Bornean rainforest to the coastal charm of our lesser-known towns, offering visitors authentic experiences that go far beyond urban centres." It was previously reported that the acquisition of MASwings was expected to be completed by Dec 31 when its ownership will be fully transferred to AirBorneo Holdings Sdn Bhd, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the state government The state government signed a sale and purchase agreement with MASwings' parent company Malaysia Aviation Group on Feb 12. Abdul Karim said AirBorneo will initially focus on rural air services within Sarawak and Sabah, with a long-term vision of regional and global connectivity. He said this vision will be achieved through code-sharing agreements with Malaysia Airlines and other major international carriers, connecting Sarawak to Asean and Middle East hubs and eventually to long-haul markets like Germany, South Korea, Japan and beyond. "This connectivity will not only support tourism but drive investment, trade and talent exchange," he said. Abdul Karim also said Sarawak was actively exploring new international routes and greater flight frequencies. "At Routes Asia 2025 in Perth, for example, our delegation engaged with global aviation stakeholders to promote Sarawak's tourism offerings and build new air service opportunities," he said. He added that these efforts were complemented by Sarawak's plans to build a new international airport in Kuching, which would position the state capital as a regional aviation hub. "In short, AirBorneo is a cornerstone of our integrated tourism strategy. It brings together infrastructure, service excellence, rural empowerment and international expansion," he said.
The Star
27-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
S'wak on course to hit five million tourist arrival target, state assembly told
State Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah delivering his winding-up speech at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly on Tuesday (May 27). KUCHING: Sarawak is on track to achieve its target of five million visitor arrivals this year after receiving encouraging numbers in the first four months, the state legislative assembly was told. State Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said more than 1.6 million arrivals were recorded from January to April, generating tourism receipts totalling RM4.07bil. ALSO READ: Sarawak exceeds 2024 tourist arrival target by 20%, rakes in RM12.45bil ( He said the state was expected to generate RM12.73bil in tourism receipts this year, an increase over RM12.45bil from 4.83 million visitors last year. "Asean is our key tourism market, with Brunei Darussalam contributing the largest share of visitor arrivals to Sarawak in 2024, accounting for 39.1% or 1.89 million visitors, followed by Indonesia with 13.5% or 653,883 visitors. ALSO READ: S'wak planning more events to hit 2025 target of five million visitors ( "Singapore and the Philippines contributed 1.2% (59,793) and 1% (46,853), respectively. "Meanwhile, China became a significant contributor with 1.5% or 74,721 visitors," Karim said when winding up matters related to his ministry on Tuesday (May 27). He said Sarawak continued to receive large numbers of visitors from Brunei and Indonesia from January to April this year with 514,015 and 236,054 respectively. China (24,865), Singapore (18,637) and the Philippines (14,482) remained among the top five contributors, he added. ALSO READ: MASwings buy to be completed end-2025, says Sarawak Deputy Transport Minister ( Looking ahead, Karim said the introduction of Sarawak's own airline, AirBorneo, and the proposed new Kuching International Airport would increase visitor arrivals and take the tourism industry to new heights. He said AirBorneo would allow Sarawak to plan its destinations of choice in line with market demand without relying on other commercial airlines. "I believe, through potential strategic partnerships with other established airlines in the near future, AirBorneo will be able to secure air connectivity to major tourism hubs in the world and expand Sarawak's market," he added. Sarawak's acquisition of MASwings Sdn Bhd to become AirBorneo is expected to be completed by the end of this year. The state government signed a share purchase agreement with MASwings' parent company Malaysia Aviation Group on Feb 12, with the legal and beneficial ownership expected to be transferred to AirBorneo Holdings Sdn Bhd by Dec 31.
