KUCHING, Feb 11 2026: Malaysia Airlines (MAS) will be operating 24 additional flights from Kuala Lumpur to Sarawak in conjunction with the upcoming Chinese New Year festive period, to cater for the expected surge in travel demand.
Transport Minister Lee Kim Shin said six flights will be added on the Kuala Lumpur–Kuching route, 16 flights on the Kuala Lumpur–Sibu route, and two flights on the Kuala Lumpur–Miri route.
“These festive periods are especially meaningful for families. As Sarawak and Malaya are separated by the South China Sea, air travel remains the only practical means of connectivity.
“This is why, ahead of every major festive season, the state Ministry of Transport (MoT) will engage with airline operators to request additional flights, so that Sarawakians can return home and celebrate with their families,” he said.
Lee added MAS is also offering a fixed all-in one-way fare of RM339 for flights to Sarawak, with a travel period from 11 to 23 February, providing greater certainty and affordability for passengers planning their festive journeys.
Following a courtesy visit yesterday by representatives from Malaysia Airlines Group (MAG), during which they briefed the Minister on MAS and Firefly’s Q1 2026 festive services for Sarawak, Lee said his welcomes the additional flight capacity and fare initiatives introduced for the Chinese New Year period.
He added that MAS and Firefly are also expected to increase flight frequencies during the Hari Raya Aidilfitri festive period to meet the anticipated rise in passenger demand, particularly for travel between Malaya and Sarawak.
He said his ministry continues to work closely with airline operators, federal Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) to ensure sufficient flight capacity and seat availability to Sarawak during peak festive periods, while also maintaining reasonable airfares for the travelling public. Other airline operators are also expected to adjust and increase their flight schedules to meet overall passenger demand.
During the briefing, MAG representatives also updated the minister on changes to the group’s senior management team, effective Feb 1, 2026.
He expressed his appreciation to MAG for its continued engagement and cooperation with the Sarawak Government in strengthening air connectivity to Sarawak, particularly during major festive seasons.
The Ministry of Transport Sarawak will continue to engage closely with all stakeholders to ensure smooth, adequate and affordable air connectivity for Sarawakians, especially during peak travel periods.
Those present included MAG representatives Nita Malek, head of government and industry relations; Leong Chuo Sheng, head of network planning; Muhammad Yasser Rabusah, station head Kuching; MoT Permanent Secretary Wong Hee Sieng; and head of the aviation division Dayang Nurhayati Abang Ahmad.
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