KUCHING, July 20 2026: State-owned AirBorneo today launched its inaugural commercial flight from Kuching to Kuala Lumpur, marking a significant milestone for Sarawak in the aviation industry.
It is also not only reflecting the long journey in strengthening control over the state’s own connectivity but also signalling AirBorneo’s entry into the commercial jet era with the introduction of two wet-leased Boeing 737-800 aircraft.
Premier Abang Johari Openg, Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Transport Minister Lee Kim Shin and AirBorneo chairman Abu Bakar Marzuki were among those onboard the inaugural flight.
In his speech, the premier said the historic moment realised the dream of the people of Sarawak, which was first announced at the end of 2021, to have its own state-owned airline.
He said the inaugural flight proved Sarawak’s ability to realise its vision through its own efforts and determination.
Abang Johari stressed that the flight is not just opening a new route, but also a symbol of Sarawak’s confidence and ability in determining the direction of its development and future.
He said air transport is a basic need for the people of Sarawak, who are separated by the South China Sea, especially for students, families and the business community who often commute to Peninsular Malaysia.
He added that AirBorneo is created as an "air bridge" that connects the people more easily, comfortably and affordably, in line with the spirit of Segulai Sejalai which emphasises togetherness and no citizen is left behind.
He said AirBorneo's business model should not be judged solely based on profits, but rather as a strategic investment that can stimulate tourism, trade, investment and the state's economic growth.
The premier said AirBorneo would continue to expand its network to regional destinations including Singapore.
“On Sarawak Day on July 22, we fly to Singapore. After which, four to five months later, AirBorneo will have four aircraft,”he said.
He said the airline will acquire more new generation of ATR aircraft next year.
AirBorneo Aiways Sdn Bhd chairman Abu Bakar Marzuki said the inaugural flight is a powerful demonstration of Sarawak’s capacity to turn bold, strategic visions into tangible, world-class realities.
“With two daily flights between Kuching to Kuala Lumpur, AirBorneo hence serves a vital commercial link across the South China Sea, strengthening connectivity between Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia.
“It brings to life AirBorneo's role as "The Bridge That Connects the Community", he said.
Abu Bakar, who is also the State Secretary, said after announcing its flat fare structure, AirBorneo has
already played a role in helping to stabilise airfares on the Kuching–Kuala Lumpur route.
“This demonstrates that our presence in the market is not merely about providing another choice of airline, but also about bringing greater stability and value to air travellers,” Abu Bakar said.
The flight touched down safely at Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 1 at approximately 3.15pm, welcomed by Deputy Prime Minister Amar Fadillah Yusof and a line of federal government ministers from Sarawak as well as President of the Senate Awang Bemee Awang Ali Basah.
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