Pontianak-Kuching direct flights may resume soon, says Abdul Karim
(From left) Sherrina, Abdul Karim, Ting and Sharzede in a press conference at the festival. – Photo by Roystein Emmor
SANTUBONG (June 21): Direct flights between Pontianak and Kuching may soon resume, following the Indonesian government's decision to reopen its airspace for the route.
Sarawak Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, confirmed the development during a press conference today, saying Indonesia has now agreed to open up its skies for the Pontianak-Kuching sector.
'I'm very happy. It has been announced on that side that they are opening up their skies from Pontianak.
'You see, Indonesia, they have got their own way. The decree must come from the President. I'm not putting the blame on the previous President because we've been asking and asking, please start again the Pontianak-Kuching flight. But it was not given.
'And recently, I was made to understand that they are opening up their skies. So, it's up to the airlines to start operating again. So, probably there are a few that might be looking into it now because I know that sector is a very good sector. It does not benefit Sarawak only. It does not benefit Malaysia only. It also benefits the other side,' he said.
Abdul Karim noted that reinstating the route would offer a major convenience for Sarawakians.
'A lot of Sarawakians now, instead of driving four, five hours to Pontianak, they might as well just fly half an hour. And that will definitely benefit the industry, the tourism industry in Pontianak,' he said.
When asked whether the Sarawak government would encourage low-cost carriers like AirAsia to take up the route, Abdul Karim confirmed that discussions are ongoing.
'Of course, we will be. Not just AirAsia. Even airlines from Indonesia. Indonesia has got lots of budget airlines. If they are willing to participate in that, of course, we are very, very happy,' he said.
He also highlighted growing demand along the Sarawak–Indonesia air corridor.
'You can see now that the flight from Kuching to Jakarta used to be once a day. Now, it's already twice a day. And the loading is very high. Either way. So, there's big potential there,' he said.
Also present were State Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Sebastian Ting; the ministry's permanent secretary Datu Sherrina Husaini; and Sarawak Tourism Board CEO Sharzede Datu Salleh Askor. Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah direct flights Kuching Pontianak
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