Sarawak to continue expanding AirBorneo network, strengthening connectivity

Caretaker Minister of Transport Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin (seated centre) is seen with guests at the ministry’s engagement session and appreciation dinner. — The Borneo Post pic

First Published: Friday, 30 Oct 2026 2:12 PM MYT

MIRI, Oct 30 — Sarawak will continue to expand AirBorneo’s flight network, upgrade airport facilities, and strengthen air connectivity as part of its efforts to develop the state’s aviation sector.

Caretaker Minister of Transport Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin said aviation is particularly important to Sarawak because of 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 during the ministry’s engagement session and appreciation dinner to mark its seventh anniversary yesterday.

Lee said the establishment of AirBorneo was 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.

According to Lee, the airline is also expected to create opportunities in tourism, trade, investment, and employment, particularly in aircraft maintenance, engineering, and aviation training.

“Through planned fleet development and network expansion, our ambition is to connect Sarawak more effectively with destinations within Malaysia, across Asean and eventually with major international markets,” he said.

On airport infrastructure, Lee said the proposed upgrading of Miri Airport, estimated to cost RM445 million, is among the state’s major priorities.

The project aims to increase terminal capacity, improve passenger facilities, and strengthen Miri’s position as an important gateway for northern Sarawak, tourism, trade, and the oil and gas industry.

Other proposed developments include runway extensions for Bario and Limbang, the proposed New Lawas Airport, and upgrading facilities in Ba Kelalan and Long Banga.

He also highlighted the proposed New Kuching International Airport at Tanjung Embang, for which a feasibility study is being carried out to assess its long-term requirements and development potential.

The proposed development would include passenger and cargo facilities, logistics, aircraft maintenance, aerospace industries, and other aviation-related activities.

Rural Air Services (RAS) remained essential to communities in remote areas, he said, 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 Ministry of Transport, Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia, Malaysia Airports, and the rural air service operator to address operational challenges and safeguard essential air connectivity, he said.

Looking ahead, Lee said Sarawak also aims to develop its aviation workforce and explore opportunities in drone technology and sustainable aviation.

“Our long-term ambition is not merely to have better airports and more flights, but to develop a comprehensive and sustainable aviation ecosystem encompassing airlines, airports, aerospace industries, aviation training, logistics, and emerging technologies,” he said.

He added that the state wants more Sarawakians to pursue careers in aviation, including as pilots, aircraft maintenance engineers, aviation technicians, and aerospace professionals. — The Borneo Post