AirBorneo to begin jet operations in July next year – Abang Johari
KUCHING: Sarawak-owned airline AirBorneo will begin operating jet aircraft from July next year as part of the state's plan to strengthen regional air connectivity, Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said.
He said the airline would launch its initial operations next month using turboprop aircraft before transitioning to jet services.
"In July, we will begin jet operations," he said at the Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) 2025 corporate dinner here yesterday, adding that the initiative would enhance Sarawak's competitiveness within the regional aviation sector.
He said Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, whom he met last Thursday, welcomed Sarawak's plan to establish direct flights between the two destinations. Transport Minister Anthony Loke, who was present at the meeting, had also given AirBorneo the green light for the proposal.
Sarawak also aims to expand beyond Singapore, with proposed services to Jeju Island in South Korea, a Unesco Global Geopark — linking it with the Sarawak Delta Geopark, which attained the same status in September this year.
Abang Johari said AirBorneo's operations would complement the ongoing efforts of SEDC, which has contributed to Sarawak's hospitality, infrastructure, and tourism development over the past five decades.
He stressed that SEDC must continue evolving by embracing innovation and technology to meet Sarawak's future economic demands, adding that "it needs critical thinking, it needs strategic thinking, it needs thinking outside the box".
"We have to develop our human capital, match this human capital with our natural capital, and transform our economy into a highly competitive economy within this region," he said.
Abang Johari also shared his aspiration for SEDC to pioneer new economic activities that will elevate the standard of living for Sarawakians.
He said SEDC was well positioned to participate in the state's emerging industries, particularly renewable energy, algae-based fuels, and other technology-driven ventures.
The corporation, he said, could spearhead the development of algae as a new green fuel for Sarawak.
"Hopefully it will become a reality. That is why our future is bright, and our economic plan is well considered — designed for the future of our people," he added.