Sarawak-owned airline AirBorneo, which is set to launch flights next month, will begin operating regional jet services by July 2026, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg announced during the SEDC Corporate Dinner at the Riverside Majestic Hotel on Friday.
He said AirBorneo will initially use ATR and Twin Otter aircraft before transitioning to jets. The upgrade, he explained, is part of Sarawak’s broader plan to open direct international routes, including to Singapore — a proposal that has already received approval from Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong during their recent meeting.
Abang Johari recounted that Wong asked if Sarawak was truly starting its own airline, to which he affirmed that operations would begin next month. He added that Transport Minister Anthony Loke, who was also present at the meeting, has agreed to AirBorneo operating jet services, including flights to Singapore.
The Premier said Sarawak is also eyeing future services to Jeju Island in South Korea, a global geopark, as part of an effort to link it with Sarawak’s own geopark attractions. He expressed hope that such connectivity would attract Korean tourists to visit and enjoy activities such as golfing in Damai.
On the airline’s cabin crew uniforms, Abang Johari said the designs are still being refined and will reflect Sarawak’s cultural identity. While expressing confidence that AirBorneo can compete with established airlines like AirAsia, he added that the uniforms “will not be too revealing,” in keeping with local values.
