Sarawak takeover of MASwings set to realise tourism potential, says Abdul Karim
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.
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Kudos to the tireless work of Lynette Silver and the Trust. Enduring Bond of Friendship The Sandakan Death Marches, though born of unimaginable suffering, have forged an enduring bond between Australia and Sabah in Malaysia, anchored in the town of Sandakan. The shared history of sacrifice – of Australian and British POWs and of the local civilians who risked their lives to aid them – has created a legacy of respect, gratitude and remembrance. Each commemoration, whether through solemn services, memorial scholarships or the stories passed down, reaffirms this connection. I also recall during my time with IJM Plantations Bhd (IJMP), when we were promoting the sport of rugby in Sabah, we often invited and hosted Australian ruggers. Those exchanges were more than just sporting events; they were living bridges of friendship through sport that carried the same spirit of camaraderie and mutual respect born of history. 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Let these graves and memories stand as a warning: this must never happen again. And as travellers fly in and out of Sandakan Airport, remember the sorrow beneath its tarmac. Once, it was not a gateway to paradise, but a runway to hell. Lest we forget – always, and again. NOTE: For those seeking a deeper understanding of this chapter of history, start with the many available video clips on the Sandakan Death Marches, including the six-part series 'The Last Survivor of Sandakan', which bring firsthand accounts to life with vivid clarity. Then, delve into Lynette Ramsay Silver's seminal work 'Sandakan: A Conspiracy of Silence' – a meticulously researched book that sheds light on the events and their lasting impact. Many other resources await those willing to explore further. For another recent reflection on the WWII persecution focused on men of faith – missionaries and laypeople, read 'Martyrs of One Fire, Witnesses in Two Lands' at Sandakan: Voices of the Unreturning Beneath the earth, beneath the skies, An aching truth before us lies. Where jungle paths once drank the pain, Now peace breathes soft – yet grief remains. They walked with hope through fire and dread, On hollow feet, by hunger led. From distant shores they came to stand, And gave their breath to this sad land. Sabahan hearts beat side by side, With strangers bound in fate and pride. Through whispering leaves, their courage calls, A beacon burning through night's walls. No stone, no cross, no written line, Can bind the depth of loss in time. Yet still we gather, year on year, To speak their names, to shed a tear. O hear, O world, this solemn cry – They walked to live, yet walked to die. Let Sandakan not fade away, But burn within each breaking day.
