More Kuching-Pontianak flights boon for tourism

KUCHING: An increase in daily Kuching-Pontianak flights from Feb 8 is expected to bolster the tourism industry in both Sarawak and Indonesia.

Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia in Kuching, Raden Sigit Witjaksono said the increased flight frequency comes at an opportune moment, coinciding with the rapid recovery phase of the tourism industry and the surge in visitors to both places.

“This increased flight frequency will also foster stronger cooperation between Indonesia and Sarawak, given the convenience and shorter distance compared to flights from Kuala Lumpur,” he said.

He said this to reporters at the 74th Immigration Day celebration held at the Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia here Saturday (Jan 20).

He also expects  the relocation of Indonesia’s new capital to East Kalimantan near Balikpapan to unlock the potential for flights between Balikpapan and Kuching.

He said the implementation of frequent flights between Sarawak and Indonesia, particularly in Kalimantan, could enhance the prospects of medical tourism in the state.

According to him, many residents from Kalimantan, as well as Jakarta, travel to Sarawak for medical services through the medical tourism sector.

“We also encourage the people of Sarawak to explore destinations in Kalimantan Barat and Timur. For instance, at the Indonesia-Sarawak border, there are popular tourist destinations such as Temajuk and Telok Melano,” he added.

Currently, direct flight services between Balikpapan and Kuching are unavailable, requiring travellers to opt for connecting flights through Malaysia Airlines, Batik Air, or AirAsia, with prices exceeding RM1,500 one way.

On Friday (Jan 19), AirAsia announced the escalation of flight frequency between Jakarta and Kuching, to daily flights starting Feb 8.

This route is currently serviced by thrice weekly flights, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.