Negotiations to acquire MASWings to close soon, says Abg Jo

KUCHING (Oct 12): Negotiations for the acquisition of MASWings are expected to conclude soon as Sarawak is on the verge of establishing its own airline, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

“The state needs an airline under its own control — not merely as a means to transport passengers in and out of the state.

“Most importantly, it is an investment to spur economic growth and provide crucial support services,” he said when speaking at the 78th birthday celebration parade for Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar at Padang Merdeka here this morning.

Abang Johari added plans for a new international airport in Kuching are currently under study.

The new facility, which will be modelled after the Doha International Airport in Qatar, is expected to have state-of-the-art amenities and aims to position Kuching as a regional aviation hub.

“This airport will be equipped with cutting-edge facilities in line with our goal of transforming it into a regional aviation hub,” he said.