Sarawak will continue expanding AirBorneo’s flight network, upgrading airport infrastructure and strengthening air connectivity as part of its long-term efforts to develop the state’s aviation industry.
Caretaker Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin said aviation played a particularly important role in Sarawak due to its vast geographical area and widely dispersed rural communities.
“For many of our people, particularly those living in the interior, aviation is a lifeline connecting them to healthcare, education, economic opportunities, and their loved ones,” he said.
Lee was speaking at the ministry’s engagement session and appreciation dinner held on Thursday to mark its seventh anniversary.
He described the establishment of AirBorneo as one of the most significant milestones in Sarawak’s aviation development over the past seven years.
“The establishment of AirBorneo represents more than the ownership of an airline.
“It reflects Sarawak’s determination to safeguard essential rural air services while progressively expanding domestic and international connectivity,” he said.
He added that the airline was expected to create new opportunities in tourism, trade, investment and employment, particularly in aircraft maintenance, engineering and aviation training.
Through planned fleet development and network expansion, Sarawak aims to improve connections with destinations across Malaysia, ASEAN and eventually major international markets.
Major airport upgrades planned
On airport infrastructure, Lee said the proposed RM445 million upgrading of Miri Airport was among the state’s key priorities.
The project aims to increase terminal capacity, improve passenger facilities and strengthen Miri’s role as a major gateway to northern Sarawak, particularly for tourism, trade and the oil and gas industry.
Other proposed developments include runway extensions at Bario and Limbang, a new airport in Lawas, and facility upgrades in Ba Kelalan and Long Banga.
Lee also highlighted plans for a proposed new Kuching International Airport at Tanjung Embang, with a feasibility study currently underway to assess its long-term requirements and development potential.
The proposed development would cover passenger and cargo facilities, logistics, aircraft maintenance, aerospace industries and other aviation-related activities.
Rural air services remain a priority
Lee stressed that Rural Air Services (RAS) remained essential for communities in remote areas, including Bario, Ba Kelalan, Long Seridan and Long Akah.
“Rural aviation cannot always be measured by commercial returns alone. Its true value lies in providing accessibility, promoting social inclusion, and ensuring that communities in the interior are not left behind in Sarawak’s development,” he said.
The ministry would continue working with the Federal Transport Ministry, Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia, Malaysia Airports and rural air service operators to address operational challenges and protect essential air connectivity.
Building a sustainable aviation industry
Looking ahead, Lee said Sarawak also intended to strengthen its aviation workforce while exploring opportunities in drone technology and sustainable aviation.
He said the state’s long-term ambition went beyond building better airports and increasing flight frequencies.
Instead, Sarawak aimed to develop a comprehensive and sustainable aviation ecosystem covering airlines, airports, aerospace industries, aviation training, logistics and emerging technologies.
Lee added that the state wanted more Sarawakians to pursue careers in aviation, including as pilots, aircraft maintenance engineers, aviation technicians and aerospace professionals.
