It looks like Sarawak’s plan to establish its own boutique airline is nearing reality. This is after the Sarawak State Government, through Hornbill Skyways Sdn Bhd, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) to acquire MASWings Sdn Bhd.
Last year, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and the Federal Government gave the green light to the Sarawak State Government to pursue establishing its own airlines. The plan itself has long been touted by the State Government, especially by its Premier Tan Sri Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg.
As reported by Dayak Daily, the MoU yesterday follows the initial MoU with the Federal Government on 20 July regarding the takeover of the management of Rural Air Service (RAS) in Sarawak and Sabah. In a speech following the signing ceremony, Abang Johari expressed confidence that Srawak’s good relationship with the Federal Government and MAG will enable it to conclude negotiations and finalise the takeover soon.
He stressed that establishing a state-owned airline is crucial as air connectivity remains a vital enabler for the mobilisation of Sarawakians, economic activities, tourism and support for investors and business communities.
The Sarawak Premier also added that the state-owned boutique airline will focus on serving the people rather than pursuing profits, with the ultimate goal of offering affordable airfares. Moreover, the airline will be a small boutique-sized carrier that caters to regional routes with a range of 6 to 7 hours, reaching far into the East, ASEAN and domestic routes.
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