3 days ago
Direct flights between Pontianak, Kuching and KL to boost tourism, economic ties
Azizul delivers his speech during the launch of AirAsia's flight routes between Kuching, Kuala Lumpur and Pontianak. — Photo by Kentigern Minggu
PONTIANAK (July 27): The resumption of direct flights between Pontianak and the Malaysian cities of Kuching and Kuala Lumpur is set to boost visitor arrivals, especially from West Kalimantan to Sarawak and Malaysia's capital, said Malaysian Consul in Pontianak, Azizul Zekri Abd Rahim.
Speaking at the launch of AirAsia's flight routes between Kuching, Kuala Lumpur and Pontianak, held in conjunction with the Sarawak Travel Fair 2025 at Ayani Megamall here yesterday, he said the reinstated services would not only boost tourism, but also strengthen economic and trade relations between the two countries.
'In addition to tourism, it will also facilitate access to educational and healthcare services in Malaysia, especially in Sarawak,' he said.
Azizul added that the initiative aligns well with Visit Malaysia Year 2026, during which a wide range of tourism, education, and cultural programmes are expected to take place across the country.
'Last year alone, some 500,000 West Kalimantan residents entered Sarawak via land, while nearly 400,000 Malaysians travelled to West Kalimantan through the same means.
'This clearly demonstrates the strong tourism, education, and trade potential between Sarawak and West Kalimantan — a potential that will only grow stronger with improved flight connectivity,' he remarked.
He noted that Sarawak and West Kalimantan share the longest land border between Malaysia and Indonesia, stretching approximately 900 kilometres.
'West Kalimantan is the only Indonesian province with the highest number of land entry points into Malaysia. These include the Tebedu–Entikong, Biawak–Aruk, and Lubok Antu–Nanga Badau crossings,' he said.
Meanwhile, Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) marketing director Barbara Benjamin Atan said the Sarawak Travel Fair 2025, held from July 25 to 27, aims to promote tourism, healthcare, and education ties between Sarawak and West Kalimantan.
She said the event reinforces Sarawak's image as a trusted tourism partner committed to long-term collaboration, marked by the participation of over 40 delegates from Sarawak.
'STB remains committed to working closely with industry partners in West Kalimantan. We believe that with shared commitment, mutual trust and strong communication, we can build a sustainable tourism relationship that benefits both regions,' she added. Airasia Azizul Zekri Abd Rahim direct flights flight routes tourism
