High fares, fewer flights: Sibu wants better AirBorneo links to Kuching, KL, Kota Kinabalu

File photo of AirBorneo plane on the runway of Kuching International Airport.

By Amanda L

KUCHING, Oct 14: The arrival of AirBorneo’s second batch of leased aircraft should be an opportunity to improve flight connectivity from Sibu, particularly on routes to Kuching, Kuala Lumpur and Kota Kinabalu, says Bukit Assek assemblyman Chieng Jin Ek.

Speaking during the debate on the Supply (2027) Bill, 2026, at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS) complex today, he said residents of Sibu and central Sarawak continued to face high airfares, reduced flight frequencies and limited direct connectivity despite air travel being essential for business, education, medical treatment, employment and family commitments.

“As I highlighted during the last DUS sitting in May, the people of Sibu and central Sarawak continue to face higher airfares, reduced flight frequencies and limited direct connectivity.

“I hope the arrival of the second batch of leased aircraft will allow AirBorneo to strengthen the Sibu-Kuching, Sibu-Kuala Lumpur and Sibu-Kota Kinabalu routes,” he said.

Chieng said the Sibu-Kuching route was particularly important for connecting central Sarawak with the state capital, while direct flights to Kuala Lumpur and Kota Kinabalu were vital for business, tourism and regional connectivity.

He said improved air services would help address the connectivity challenges faced by residents and support economic activities across central Sarawak.

The assemblyman also stressed that air travel should not be viewed as a luxury, given its importance to people who need to travel for medical treatment, pursue educational opportunities or fulfil employment commitments. —DayakDaily