SARAWAK-owned carrier AirBorneo, established to bolster the state’s regional air links, will transition to jet operations in July next year, Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg announced as he outlined the state’s wider aviation and economic ambitions.
At the Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) 2025 corporate dinner, Abang Johari said the airline would first launch its inaugural services next month using turboprop aircraft before upgrading its fleet mid-year.
“In July, we will begin jet operations,” he said, adding that the move would strengthen Sarawak’s competitiveness in the regional aviation sector.
He said Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong had welcomed Sarawak’s intention to establish direct services to the city-state during their meeting last Thursday.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke, who was also present, “gave AirBorneo the green light” to proceed.
The state is additionally assessing new international links, including a proposed route to Jeju Island in South Korea, a UNESCO Global Geopark, which could form a symbolic connection to the Sarawak Delta Geopark that received the same designation in September.
Abang Johari said the launch of AirBorneo complements SEDC’s five decades of contributions to Sarawak’s tourism, hospitality and infrastructure development. He emphasised, however, that the corporation must accelerate its evolution in line with Sarawak’s economic trajectory. “It needs critical thinking, it needs strategic thinking, it needs thinking outside the box,” he said.
“We have to develop our human capital, match this human capital with our natural capital, and transform our economy into a highly competitive economy within this region.”
He outlined a forward-looking mandate for SEDC to champion emerging industries, particularly renewable energy, algae-derived fuels and other technology-driven sectors. Abang Johari said the corporation is well positioned to spearhead the development of algae as Sarawak’s next green fuel.
“Hopefully it will become a reality. That is why our future is bright, and our economic plan is well considered — designed for the future of our people,” he said. - December 6, 2025
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