MUKAH – The Malaysian Aviation Commission (Mavcom) will undertake rationalisation of MASwings’ Rural Air Services (RAS) in Sabah and Sarawak, among others to study objectives, financial implications, and flight frequency and fares.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said the rationalisation involved a periodic review of RAS’ objectives, the financial implications involved, the route and frequency of RAS flights, the fares charged, the aircraft used and the user subsidy mechanisms of the service.
He said this during the launch of New Mukah Airport, which was attended by Sarawak Caretaker Chief Minister Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg and Transport Minister Datuk Seri Wee Ka Siong.
The RM450 million airport has been in operation since June 17, replacing the former Short Take-off and Landing Air Strip here.
The prime minister said MASwings had started providing rural air services in Sabah and Sarawak in 2008 via the RAS Agreement signed on July 3, 2008.
A new agreement called the Public Service Obligation for Rural Air Services Agreement (PSO for RAS) was signed on January 4, 2019 between the Malaysian government and MASwings to continue operating RAS until 2024.
“Based on the PSO for RAS, MASwings services 40 routes in Sarawak and Sabah using ATR72 and Twin Otter Viking aircraft,” he added.
On New Mukah Airport, Ismail Sabri said its construction would intensify economic opportunities, with a multifold and recurring impact on Mukah residents.
He said it would also support activities in the Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy and create a more effective and efficient economic network.
The new airport is equipped with a new terminal and a 1,500m runway to accommodate ATR aircraft, which can ferry more passengers than the Twin Otters used previously.
With its improved status, New Mukah Airport can handle more passengers and help strengthen Mukah’s position as a contributor to Sarawak’s economic growth, he said. – The Vibes, December 4, 2021
