SARAWAK’s upcoming state-owned airline, AirBorneo, represents a key step in the state’s ambition to strengthen connectivity and cooperation across Southeast Asia, Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has said.
The airline, which is expected to begin operations in 2026, forms part of a broader initiative to deepen Sarawak’s ties with fellow ASEAN members by improving regional mobility, facilitating trade, and attracting investment and tourism.
“In line with our aspirations for regional connectivity, Sarawak is proud to announce the upcoming launch of our airline, AirBorneo, scheduled to commence operations in 2026,” Bernama cited Abang Johari saying in a speech delivered on his behalf by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan at the 33rd ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Council Meeting’s gala dinner last night.
He emphasised that enhanced air connectivity would ease both travel and business between Sarawak and the capitals and major cities of ASEAN, positioning the state as a key regional gateway.
To support this vision, the Premier announced plans for major infrastructure developments, including a new international airport and a deep-sea port at Tanjung Embang in Kota Samarahan.
“This will improve air and sea connectivity while increasing the state’s appeal to the business community, investors and tourists,” he added.
Abang Johari also highlighted Sarawak’s strategic potential in strengthening the Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA), a subregional bloc aimed at complementing ASEAN’s wider economic integration agenda.
“Our shared land borders with Brunei Darussalam and Kalimantan, Indonesia, open doors for cross-border economic development through strategic initiatives,” he said. “The relocation of Indonesia's capital city to Kalimantan will generate significant economic spillover effects for Borneo Island, creating new opportunities for investment, trade, and infrastructure development.”
The gala dinner was also attended by Malaysia’s Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, and ASEAN Secretary-General Dr Kao Kim Hourn.
The ASCC Council Meeting, held from 22 to 26 April, brings together ministers and senior officials from all 11 ASEAN member states to address shared socio-cultural priorities. Participating countries include Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and Timor-Leste. - April 25, 2025
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